Yeghishe Kirakosyan Does Not See Intentions to Withdraw Armenia’s Lawsuits Against Baku
Armenia’s Representative on International Legal Matters, Yeghishe Kirakosyan, stated that he does not see any indications that Yerevan is planning to withdraw its lawsuits against Baku from international courts. Kirakosyan made this comment during a press briefing, noting that, as of now, Armenia has not filed any new lawsuits, and all existing procedures are ongoing.
Kirakosyan also addressed the issue of the return of Armenian prisoners of war. According to Kirakosyan, Yerevan had previously submitted such demands to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). However, both courts deemed the issues beyond their jurisdiction. Kirakosyan believes the resolution of the prisoners’ return lies within the political sphere.
According to official data from Baku, 23 Armenian prisoners of war are currently detained, including members of the military-political leadership of Artsakh. In September, Armenia’s office for international legal matters reported that Baku is holding 8 high-ranking officials, 10 servicemen, and 5 civilians.
At the beginning of September, Baku announced that former officials of Artsakh would soon face trial. They are accused of serious crimes, ranging from terrorism to forming and financing illegal armed groups. If the court upholds these charges, the accused face penalties up to life imprisonment.