Artsakh Parliament Acting Speaker Bagunts: We Thank the Swiss Parliament for Its Principled Position

PanARMENIAN.Net – Gagik Bagunts, acting president of the National Assembly of the Republic of Artsakh, has expressed gratitude to the Swiss Parliament for its attention to the people of Artsakh and its principled stance. This was stated in his official announcement.

He noted that such a united and principled position reflects Switzerland’s commitment to international law and humanitarian values.

“Expressing the deep gratitude of the people of Artsakh, we welcome and highly appreciate the Swiss Confederation’s Federal Assembly, particularly the upper chamber—the Council of Cantons—for adopting Resolution No. 24.4259 on March 18, 2025, titled ‘Peace Forum for Nagorno-Karabakh: Ensuring the Possibility of Armenians’ Return.’

“It is of particular importance that both chambers of the Swiss Parliament—the National Council on December 17, 2024, and now the Council of Cantons—voted in favor of this crucial initiative. This unified and principled stance underscores Switzerland’s dedication to international law and humanitarian values.

“We deeply appreciate the Swiss Parliament’s call to establish a dedicated dialogue platform between representatives of Artsakh and Azerbaijan. The right of Artsakh’s forcibly displaced population to return safely, collectively, and with dignity is an integral part of international law, as repeatedly affirmed by various international bodies, including the International Court of Justice and the European Parliament’s resolutions.

“We hope that the Swiss Federal Council will promptly take the necessary steps to implement this historic decision of the Council of Cantons.

“We reaffirm our readiness to support all efforts aimed at guaranteeing the rights and security of the people of Artsakh, as well as achieving a stable and just peace in the region.

“Once again, we extend our profound gratitude to the Swiss Parliament for its principled position, humanitarian approach, and attention to the suffering and needs of the people of Artsakh.”

The Council of Cantons has adopted Resolution No. 24.4259, titled “Peace Forum for Nagorno-Karabakh: Ensuring the Possibility of Armenians’ Return.” In the 46-member chamber, 29 deputies voted in favor, while 12 voted against.

Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis and several parliamentarians attempted to prevent the adoption of the resolution, arguing that it contradicts international law, as the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh are not considered a subject under international law. Cassis stated that Baku and Yerevan would soon sign a peace agreement, making such an initiative unnecessary.

However, supporters of the resolution countered by emphasizing Switzerland’s proven effectiveness as a neutral mediator. They highlighted that ensuring dialogue between representatives of Azerbaijan and the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh could facilitate the safe and organized return of those who were forcibly displaced.