YEREVAN. – The Human Rights Defender (Ombudsman) of Armenia, Arman Tatoyan, met with UK Ambassador John Gallagher.

A number of human rights issues were discussed at the meeting, the Office of the Human Rights Defender informed Armenian News-NEWS.am.

In particular, Tatoyan briefed the ambassador on violations of the rights of the border residents of Armenia by the Azerbaijani servicemen—and with specific examples and facts. He stressed the urgency of the return of Armenian captives illegally being detained in Azerbaijan, as well as the fact that these people are being held for political and military interests—for trade.

He noted that the Azerbaijani armed forces need to leave Armenia’s villages—in many cases, from near people's homes and roads—, and a demilitarized security zone needs to be created.

Tatoyan stated that added to all this is the policy of the Azerbaijani authorities to back Armenophobia and propaganda of enmity against Armenians.

Ambassador Gallagher, for his part, lauded the high quality of their collaboration with Ombudsman Arman Tatoyan, and expressed readiness for further joint work.