Integrating Artsakh as a Region of Armenia: Concerns of Potential Russification, Says Seyfidyan

We are starting the process of integrating Artsakh into the structure of Armenia as a region. This was stated by Jirair Seyfidyan, one of the founders of the "Sasna Tsrer" party, during a conversation with journalists today.

In response to the question of how they envision this legally, and whether the residents of Artsakh agree to obtain a regional status, Seyfidyan answered: "We are confident that it is in everyone’s hearts and that they share the idea that we are beginning. The idea of unification can be realized, for example, through a referendum, or through the mutual ratification of the parliaments. Another way could be to include Artsakh in the national elections of Armenia, and so on. We believe there are many mechanisms available. We are not insisting on any specific direction right now; we think it should be left to the decision of the new authorities of Artsakh after the upcoming elections, and why not, also according to the geopolitical situation, we should decide which legal tools to use."

Expounding further, Seyfidyan expressed their concern that Artsakh could be russified, similar to what happened in Abkhazia and South Ossetia. When asked what reasons allow for such an opinion, Seyfidyan advised to follow the media, promising, "We will soon reveal the details regarding the information and actions that have led us to this conclusion."