Armenia has decided to freeze its participation in the Russian-led Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO) due to perceived failures and concerns about its defense needs.
Prime Minister’s Statement
- Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that Armenia’s decision to freeze participation was prompted by the CSTO’s failure to fulfill its objectives, particularly in 2021 and 2022.
- Pashinyan expressed dissatisfaction with the CSTO’s support for Armenia and hinted at the possibility of further actions regarding Armenia’s involvement with the treaty.
Allegations Against Azerbaijan
- Pashinyan accused Azerbaijan of not adhering to the principles necessary for a long-term peace treaty.
- He suggested that Azerbaijan’s actions indicated preparations for another attack, citing statements by President Ilham Aliyev and the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh.
Response from Azerbaijan
Baku dismissed Pashinyan’s allegations, stating they were unfounded and accused him of disrupting regional stability and the peace process.
Azerbaijan’s Rebuttal
- Azerbaijan rejected Pashinyan’s claims and accused him of distorting reality to deceive the international community.
- Azerbaijan emphasized its adherence to international legal norms and denied any preparations for an attack on Armenia.
Challenges to Peace Treaty
Prospects for a long-term peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan face obstacles, particularly concerning territorial integrity and control of ethnic enclaves.
Territorial Disputes
- Pashinyan highlighted Azerbaijan’s stance on territorial integrity as a hindrance to a peace treaty.
- Issues such as demarcation of borders and control of ethnic enclaves remain unresolved.
Recent Discussions
- Pashinyan and Aliyev have engaged in discussions aimed at advancing towards a peace treaty, including meetings at international forums such as the Munich Security Conference.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with Answers
- Why did Armenia decide to freeze its participation in the CSTO?
- A) Due to dissatisfaction with Azerbaijan
- B) Because of perceived failures of the CSTO
- C) In response to pressure from Russia
- D) To align with NATO
- What accusation did Prime Minister Pashinyan make against Azerbaijan?
- A) Violating human rights
- B) Preparing for a new attack
- C) Engaging in cyber warfare
- D) Interfering in domestic politics
- How did Azerbaijan respond to Pashinyan’s allegations?
- A) By confirming the allegations
- B) By denying the allegations and accusing Pashinyan
- C) By threatening military action
- D) By withdrawing from international forums
- What are the main obstacles to a long-term peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan?
- A) Economic disparities
- B) Environmental concerns
- C) Territorial disputes and control of ethnic enclaves
- D) Cultural differences