Issue of POWs remains key topic in discussions with international partners, Armenian FM says

Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan has said the issue of Armenian prisoners of war and detainees held in Baku remains a constant element of Armenia’s discussions with international partners, including the United States, expressing hope that renewed progress could be achieved in the near future.

Speaking at a press conference following the visit of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Mirzoyan was asked whether he had discussed the issue of detainees with the US official and whether Washington had real leverage to influence the process.

Mirzoyan stressed that the issue has consistently remained on the agenda of Armenia’s diplomatic contacts. “The issue of prisoners and hostages held in Baku is always part of our discussions. I have said this a thousand times, and if necessary I am ready to repeat it a thousand more times,” Mirzoyan said.

While saying he was not authorized to speak on behalf of the US side, Mirzoyan said Armenia’s American partners have demonstrated sustained interest and engagement on the issue. “Our American partners have consistently shown sincere interest in this issue and have made efforts. We remember cases in the past when those efforts were successful,” he said.

Mirzoyan added that he hoped another breakthrough could be achieved soon, but refrained from making specific assurances.

“I have never made promises on this matter. This is an issue where success speaks for itself – when prisoners are released, everyone immediately knows,” he said.

The Armenian foreign minister reiterated that the United States has not shown any decline in attention to the matter and has remained willing to contribute to efforts aimed at securing the return of Armenian detainees.