Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has responded to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev’s accusations of Armenia being a “fascist state,” framing the remarks as part of an effort to escalate tensions in the region.
In a statement to Armenpress, Pashinyan stressed that Armenia remains committed to a peaceful approach despite Baku’s aggressive rhetoric.
“Perhaps Baku is trying to legitimize an escalation in the region,” Pashinyan remarked.
“Aggressive statements are being made with the expectation of an aggressive reaction from Yerevan, which would justify further escalation from Baku. We will not take this path and will stay committed to our peace strategy.”
Language of Dialogue Over Aggression
Pashinyan emphasized the importance of dialogue and understanding between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
He acknowledged the mutual negative perceptions that exist between the two nations and reiterated Armenia’s commitment to resolving these through peaceful means.
“The peace agenda is aimed at eliminating these perceptions. Some agreed provisions of the peace treaty address these perceptions, while other parts provide an opportunity to tackle mutual issues through dialogue,” he added.
Pashinyan also revealed that Armenia had proposed solutions for two unresolved articles in the peace treaty. “If Azerbaijan responds positively, we are ready to sign the treaty,” he said, signaling progress in negotiations between the two countries.
The remarks come after Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev called Armenia a “threat to the region” and labeled it a “fascist state,” adding that “fascism must be destroyed.”
Aliyev’s statements have drawn sharp criticism from Yerevan, with Armenia viewing such language as inflammatory and counterproductive to peace efforts.
