Armenia reaffirms peace commitment, urges end to hostilities – Speaker

Armenia is always against any kind of escalation,and reaffirms its position on the cessation of hostilities, preventing attacks on civilians, and resolving problems through political and diplomatic means, the National Assembly Speaker of the Republic of Armenia, Alen Simonyan, said during his speech at the IPA CIS Solemn Meeting, the Parliament has said in a statement.

"I welcome the participants of the solemn meeting of the CIS Inter-Parliamentary Assembly and the guests ahead of the Great Victory Day. Today, we have gathered to once again remember the heroism, will, and boundless courage of those who defended freedom during the Great Patriotic War, as well as to express our sincere respect to our beloved veterans who are still alive.

The World War II left an indelible mark on human history. It brought not only devastation, but also immeasurable human losses, as well as moral and spiritual wounds that are still felt today. Millions of people died on the battlefield, in concentration camps, from hunger and disease.

The Armenian people played a major role in achieving victory over fascism. More than half a million Armenians fought in the ranks of the Soviet Army on all fronts, from the Caucasus to Europe, demonstrating incredible courage and selflessness.

Armenian soldiers distinguished themselves during the defense of the Brest Fortress and Sevastopol, on the outskirts to Moscow and Leningrad, fought heroically in Stalingrad, defended the North Caucasus, liberated the countries of South Eastern and Central Europe, and entered Berlin as part of national Armenian divisions.

Many of our compatriots fought in the armies of allied countries, participated in the anti-fascist struggle, and had their contribution to the victory.

A tank column, aircraft squadrons were created, and a large amount of weapons and ammunition was purchased with funds raised by the Diaspora and the Armenian Church.

Unfortunately, about three hundred thousand Armenians never returned to their homeland.

The memory of the Great Patriotic War and the victory over fascism is part of our common history. Knowing the price of victory, Armenia treats the history of the Great Patriotic War with care.

Today, more than 600 monuments to war participants are under state protection in our republic. It is our duty to remember and honour the feat of those who gave their lives for this victory.

Colleagues,

Our meeting is an opportunity not only to evaluaate the 80th anniversary of the victory, but also to recall war as a phenomenon with catastrophic consequences for humanity.

We see that in recent years, events have occurred that have changed the formed mechanisms and stereotypes of international relations. The conflicts of recent decades have had consequences that go beyond the countries and regions directly involved. Their impact, ranging from humanitarian crises to political instability, affects almost all of humanity. Armenia is always against any kind of escalation , and reaffirms its position on the cessation of hostilities, preventing attacks on civilians, and resolving problems through political and diplomatic means.

Taking this opportunity, I would like to once again congratulate all veterans of the Great Patriotic War and World War II on the upcoming holiday. May the memory of those who fought be eternal and the peace they left us be preserved.

Thank you for your attention!'' Simonyan said in his speech.