Armenia’s ruling coalition, country’s political leadership, Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Relations consider that draft bill on Karabakh’s independence proposed by Heritage party is premature, Shirak Torosyan, committee’s member and ruling party’s MP, said addressing the parliamentarians.

According to him, Nagorno-Karabakh’s recognition by the Armenian Parliament can damage negotiations within the OSCE Minsk Group or deadlock them. Torosyan stressed that Azerbaijan’s constant warlike statements hamper the peace process as well.  He also recalled that the Supreme Council of the Armenian Soviet Republic recognized Nagorno-Karabakh back in 1989, today Armenia recognizes NKR de facto and will support Stepanakert on any issue. “The point is there is internationally recognized format on resolution of the Karabakh conflict within OSCE Minsk Group. Till we participate in the peace process, we cannot take any other steps,” the MP said. Torosyan noted that every Armenian wants Karabakh’s independence to be recognized by Armenia. “However, we will do it when realize that potential for talks within OSCE MG format is exhausted. Let’s be optimistic and hopeful that the peace process within OSCE will yield results,” Torosyan added. He expressed gratitude to the Heritage party for voicing the issue on Karabakh’s independence in the Armenian parliament.  Nevertheless, he called on his Heritage colleagues to withdraw the initiative.

On October 5, the draft bill on NKR recognition proposed by Heritage party is considered in the Armenian Parliament.