Armenian Parliament Speaker attends IPU Assembly in Istanbul
Madam President,
Mr. Secretary General,
Excellencies,
Fellow parliamentarians,
Ladies and gentlemen,
It is an honour to accept the gracious invitation of Türkiye and address the 152nd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) on behalf of the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia. As we discuss the theme, Nurturing Hope, Securing Peace, and Ensuring Justice for Future Generations, I would like to observe that the importance of this topic cannot be overstated. Let me say an obvious truth: a flourishing present and future are built on a foundation of hope, peace, and justice.
For Armenia, this notion informs our policies and impels our actions. We strive for a future in which everyone shares the same opportunities for social and economic prosperity.
But who can only dream about a better future, and who can actually create it? Future generations cannot construct the world they will inherit. At best, they can only entrust us to act prudently on their behalf.
Hope sustains our passion for justice and our capacity to trust. Our actions today must serve to build that trust. The coming generations need to believe that the peace we build today will endure.
Make no mistake. The fractures in our world are deep and severe. We are profoundly troubled by the situation in Iran, and my prayers go out to the Iranian people. The crisis in Lebanon cannot be ignored. To be sure, the test we face is formidable. Yet, who but us has the power - and the moral obligation - to heal our world?
Armenia fully accepts its responsibility.
Following the 2025 agreement signed by the leaders of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and the US, peace has prevailed in our region, marking a truly monumental achievement. But our vision is grander. We invite Türkiye to be a partner and join us in weaving a tapestry of peace. To this end, we are eager to deepen our relationship with Türkiye.
After decades of suspicion and ill will, a new era of confidence-building between Armenia and Azerbaijan has dawned. Efforts to consolidate this progress are now focused on strengthening communication and ensuring that peace is effectively translated into concrete realities on the ground.
The recent implementation of the framework for the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) represents another milestone. This initiative aims to both create regional connectivity and expand international trade routes.
Based on the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and jurisdiction, the TRIPP has the potential to promote stability, economic cooperation, and prosperity across the South Caucasus and beyond.
Encouraging signs of normalization are unmistakable. For the first time in years, trade between Armenia and Azerbaijan is beginning to emerge. The recent import of Azerbaijani goods into Armenia marks a symbolic and practical step toward rebuilding economic ties. These are the dividends of peace - tangible improvements that directly benefit our people.
At the same time, serious humanitarian issues remain and must be resolved.To continue building trust and achieve genuine reconciliation, the 19 Armenians still detained in Azerbaijan should be released and reunited with their families, and the fate of other missing persons should be clarified.
Colleagues,
Now is the time to set priorities, and, for the sake of posterity, we must choose them wisely. Who, let us not forget, are the succeeding generations? They are our children and grandchildren. It is our solemn duty to be worthy of them by leaving a legacy not of war but of peace.
Thank you.