Signing Ceremony of Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Dignity of the Human Being

On May 16, during a working visit to Strasbourg, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan signed the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Dignity of the Human Being with regard to the Application of Biology and Medicine (Oviedo Convention). The signing ceremony, attended by the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Marija Pejčinović Burić, was hailed as an essential step in increasing Armenia's engagement with the Council of Europe. Minister Mirzoyan emphasized Armenia's commitment to strengthening the rule of law, implementing democratic reforms, and enhancing institutional capabilities, with the Council of Europe playing a pivotal role in this regard.

After the signing ceremony, Minister Mirzoyan met with the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, discussing various issues on the Armenia-CoE agenda. The normalization of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan was a focal point of the discussions. Minister Mirzoyan briefed on recent developments, including discussions held in Almaty, emphasizing the importance of unequivocal recognition of territorial integrity based on the 1991 Alma-Ata Declaration for clarity in the delimitation process.

Continuing the dialogue, Minister Mirzoyan reiterated Armenia's constructive engagement in discussions on unblocking regional communications, emphasizing principles of respect for sovereignty, equality, and reciprocity.

Meeting with President of the PACE

In a separate meeting with President of the PACE Theodoros Rousopoulos, Minister Mirzoyan discussed Armenia's engagement in the Council of Europe and steps taken to implement its reform agenda. Emphasis was placed on democratic reforms, anti-corruption efforts, and the independent judiciary. Minister Mirzoyan highlighted the interconnectedness of democratic reforms and peace-building efforts in the region, underscoring Armenia's political will to normalize relations with Azerbaijan based on mutual recognition of territorial integrity.

Regional issues and humanitarian concerns were also addressed, focusing on PACE resolutions and their implementation. Minister Mirzoyan reiterated Armenia's commitment to achieving lasting peace in the South Caucasus through dialogue and mutual respect.