The head of the Armenian Foreign Ministry Ara Ayvazyan on January 25 made a video image on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the RA membership in the Council of Europe, which, in particular, said:
"20 years ago, on this day, the Republic of Armenia became a full member of the Council of Europe - the most valuable organization that determines the standards of democracy on the European continent.
By joining the Council of Europe, Armenia has become part of the family of European countries with which we share the overall history, values and ideas, as well as the vision of future Europe, in which basic rights and freedoms are protected without distinction and discrimination.
Armenia recognizes and appreciates the contribution of this unique organization, which for more than 70 years of its existence remained the main defender of human rights and democracy in Europe.
Two decades of Armenian membership in the Council of Europe were a period of active participation and sincere cooperation. During this period, Armenia joined about 70 conventions and partial agreements, towing strong legal bridges with the organization and its member states.
In 2013, Armenia adopted the chairmanship at the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe for 6 months, directing common efforts aimed at democratic processes. The process of democratic reforms remains the key area of cooperation between Armenia - the Council of Europe, the organization with its valuable expert potential has become a reliable partner of Armenia in this area.
Council of Europe, experts of the organization, specialized observational bodies, such as the Venetian Commission, have made a significant contribution to our efforts to build a fair democratic society, as well as to maintain the principle of the rule of law.
Armenia is still committed to its obligations when joining the Council of Europe, including a peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. A recent war in Artsakh had a devastating impact on the basic rights and life of the local population. We believe that the Council of Europe will take these challenges and take steps within its mandate to protect the rights, freedoms and dignity of all people living in the conflict zones, including Artsakh.
Taking this opportunity - the 20th anniversary of our membership - I would like to confirm the commitment of Armenia with the principles and goals adopted by the Council of Europe.