Artsakh people have full right to identity – Heritage leader

PanARMENIAN.Net - Heritage party leader has slammed the use of such political words as “occupation” incorrect with regard to Nagorno Karabakh conflict.

As Raffi Hovannissian noted at a Baku-hosted General Assembly of the VII International Conference of Asian Political Parties, the term implies occupation of Armenian lands by Turkey and Azerbaijan.

He further deemed Azerbaijani aggression against Artsakh people as the reason behind Karabakh conflict.

Party leader noted establishment of peace and restoration of relations possible once the countries acknowledge the responsibility they claim for the region.

“NKR people have full right to expression and assertion of identity. I understand the problem of 700 thous Azerbaijani refugees and the rights of 400 thous Armenian refugees banished from Baku and Sumgait. They all have the right to return to their lands, including Azerbaijanis to independent Karabakh and Armenians to Turkey,” Mr. Hovannissian said, voicing hope to visit Armenian church and meet Baku-based Armenians.

“I’m happy to be in Baku, which is considered an international city with small number of Armenians, however,” he said.