Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan does not consider discussing Armenia's domestic politics with Azerbaijani representatives humiliating.

During a press briefing Thursday, answering the question of who had initiated the meeting between Armenian Security Council Secretary Armen Grigoryan and Azerbaijani presidential aide Hikmet Hajiyev in Dilijan, Armenia, why there was a need to discuss risk management, and whether it was humiliating to discuss Armenia's domestic politics with an Azerbaijani representative, Pashinyan stated that he himself had instructed Armen Grigoryan to study the need for such a meeting, as analysts from both countries had seen certain trends that could escalate the situation.

The premier noted that no explanations were given to anyone—regarding Armenia's domestic politics. On the other hand, according to Pashinyan, this is precisely what diplomatic work is all about, when the parties clarify their positions to each other. This happens during any diplomatic contact, when information is received not from third parties or the media, but firsthand.

At the same time, Pashinyan stated that dozens of other issues were discussed at the meeting, including related to persons deprived of their liberty and border management.

“There are different formats with different neighbors. On [parliamentary] election day [on June 7], I had a phone conversation with the prime minister of Georgia,” Pashinyan said, adding that the Armenian side does not discuss domestic politics, but shares information, and this is an accepted practice.

Pashinyan categorically disagreed with the “humiliating” wording, and considered such a process to be “contacts,” “clarification of position,” and “diplomacy.”

In response to a request to provide details of the aforesaid meeting, Pashinyan stated that this was discussed in detail in the National Assembly on Wednesday, and there was nothing to add.

“This was an important meeting, and it is important that it took place in Armenia, and not outside the region. This means that we are moving forward in the peace process and managing all possible risks,” the Armenian premier stated.