The dialogue with Armenia was held within the framework of the 31st session of the Committee on Enforced Disappearances, in Geneva, Switzerland, Armenian News-NEWS.am was informed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of Armenia.

The Armenian delegation was headed by Robert Abisoghomonyan, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of Armenia. Representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Health, the National Security Service, the Investigative Committee, the Office of the Representative of Armenia on International Legal Matters, and the Scientific-Practical Center of Forensic Medicine of the Ministry of Health also participated in the dialogue as members of the delegation.

During the meeting, Deputy Minister Robert Abisoghomonyan delivered opening remarks, addressing the progress made in fulfilling Armenia’s commitments and emphasizing the importance of identifying and addressing existing challenges, as well as ensuring the full and effective implementation of the Convention.

The efforts undertaken by Armenia to address the Committee’s observations were presented, including legal, institutional and practical measures aimed at ensuring the protection of fundamental human rights, the rule of law, and access to justice for forcibly disappeared persons and their families.

Armenia’s commitment to cooperation with international partners and bodies in addressing the issues of missing and forcibly disappeared persons, strengthening capacities, and ensuring a robust legal framework was reaffirmed.

The initialed peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan was also discussed, including its provision addressing missing persons and cases of enforced disappearances, with emphasis placed on the importance of institutionalizing peace in the region.

Members of the Armenian delegation delivered statements and responded to questions raised by the country rapporteurs and other members of the Committee.

The Committee on Enforced Disappearances is a body of independent experts that monitors the implementation by States Parties of the provisions of the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance.