Belgium’s Foreign Relations Committee will hold hearings on April 2 regarding a draft resolution on Artsakh.
The draft was introduced months ago by federal MPs Els Van Hoof and Michel de Maegd, according to Armenpress.
Commenting on the initiative, Van Hoof emphasized the importance of Belgian support for Armenia, a country that, in her words, shares respect for democracy, the rule of law, and international norms.
“I was deeply shocked by the blockade of the Lachin Corridor, Azerbaijan’s continued aggression against the people of Artsakh, and Baku’s ongoing hostile rhetoric toward Armenia. Belgium and Europe must put pressure on Azerbaijan to fully respect Armenia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, and to work sincerely toward lasting peace. If Azerbaijan keeps violating international law, restrictions must be imposed at the European level and EU-Azerbaijan relations reassessed. This is what my resolution calls for,” she said.
Michel de Maegd added that it is unacceptable for Armenian prisoners to remain in inhumane conditions in Baku’s prisons, stressing the need for international mechanisms.
“We must raise our voices. We must ramp up pressure on Azerbaijan by all available means. I raised this issue again this week with the foreign minister and the prime minister. It is urgent. This resolution serves exactly that purpose. It calls on the government to act and use its leverage. It demands sanctions against the Aliyev regime. I will remain fully engaged and will never abandon this fight,” de Maegd said.
The preliminary version of the resolution includes several key provisions, such as:
- the safe return of the Armenian population of Artsakh,
- condemnation of Azerbaijan’s hostile rhetoric,
- the need for regional stability,
- the release of Armenian prisoners of war,
- and the protection of Armenian cultural heritage, among other issues.
The Swiss Council of States recently adopted Motion No. 24.4259 titled “Peace forum for Nagorno-Karabakh: Ensuring return opportunities for Armenians.” Out of 46 members, 29 voted in favor, 12 against. Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis and several MPs opposed it, arguing it contradicts international law since Karabakh Armenians lack international legal status. Cassis added that Baku and Yerevan are close to signing a peace deal, rendering such initiatives unnecessary. Supporters countered that Switzerland has proven its neutrality and that facilitating dialogue between Azerbaijan and Karabakh Armenians can help ensure the safe and organized return of displaced people.
