Pashinyan Links Armenian Genocide to ‘International Machinations’ in Commemorative Address
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan addressed the 111th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide on Friday, describing the event as “the greatest tragedy” of the Armenian people. In his speech, Pashinyan stated that, according to Armenian academic literature, the genocide was “also a consequence of the practice of drawing the Armenian people into international machinations,” a trend that began in the mid-19th century. The massacres, perpetrated by the Ottoman Empire, resulted in the deaths of approximately 1.5 million Armenians, alongside an estimated 750,000 Assyrians and 1.1 million Greeks.
Turkey continues to deny the genocidal nature of the events. Pashinyan emphasized the importance of statehood and peace as safeguards against future tragedies, asserting that his government’s policies are rooted in historical analysis and prevention. He argued that Armenia’s focus should remain within its internationally recognized borders – 29,743 square kilometers – to ensure prosperity and stability for its people.
The Prime Minister also addressed ongoing debates surrounding his previous statements regarding the genocide, particularly a January 2025 comment questioning the timing of its public recognition. He cautioned against using the issue as a tool in international conflicts. Furthermore, Pashinyan condemned the burning of a Turkish flag during the annual torchlight march, calling the act “irresponsible and unacceptable.” This occurred amidst ongoing Armenia-Turkey relations, marked by a closed border despite a 2022 agreement and a renewed normalization process.
Recent statements from Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan have shifted priorities away from international recognition, focusing instead on peace and stability in the region. The Armenian government continues to grapple with the legacy of the Armenian Genocide, with Pashinyan emphasizing the need to avoid actions that could jeopardize Armenia’s statehood and sovereignty. The event remains a central issue in Armenian politics and relations with Turkey.
Arshaluys Barseghyan
Topics: #armenian #genocide #pashinyan
