Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South-Central, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context

127. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade for an update on his Department’s engagements in relation to the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan; and the efforts being made to ensure that peace is sustained in the region. [57179/25]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Ireland warmly welcomed the initialising of the peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan at the beginning of August, and commends both countries for taking this vital step towards lasting peace and stability in the South Caucasus. Along with our EU partners, we stand ready to support its implementation.

Ireland and our EU partners regularly engage with Armenia and Azerbaijan to discuss the conflict, and the role that we – and the EU - might play in facilitating long lasting peace. Yesterday, Ireland participated in a meeting attended by the Armenian Foreign Minister and the Azerbaijani Deputy Foreign Minister to discuss cross-regional security and connectivity in the region following the EU Foreign Affairs Council. We also regularly engage with senior officials from both countries on a bilateral basis.

Ireland is supportive of the EU Mission in Armenia which is an important component of the EU’s efforts in supporting peace and stability in the region. My Department currently deploys three Irish civilian experts to the Mission. Ireland and the EU have allocated funding to support de-mining in Azerbaijan; to facilitate the return of internally displaced persons; and to promote sustainable communities. In July 2024, the EU adopted a non-lethal assistance measure under the European Peace Facility in support of Armenia.

Ireland will continue to advocate for the full signing, ratification, and implementation of the peace agreement, both bilaterally and through the EU.