Foreign Minister Mirzoyan explains the importance of Armenia's membership in International Criminal Court
YEREVAN, December 3. /ARКА/. Armenia is addressing the Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) for the first time as a full member, thereby emphasizing the importance of this step aimed at strengthening international justice, Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan on Monday.
‘The milestone decision to become a member of this august body was not an easy one. But having in mind the history of Armenia, we were firm in our belief that elimination of impunity, promotion of justice and accountability is of utmost importance and that it can only be achieved by uniting our efforts," Mirzoyan said, speaking from the rostrum of the Assembly.
‘We believe that the International Criminal Court is an important element of international law. It also enhances the development of international law and makes it more appropriate to the present-day challenges. And, perhaps most importantly, it delivers justice to the victims of atrocities, which is a vital element for peace and reconciliation. Therefore, Armenia fully acknowledges and accepts the responsibility to actively contribute to the strengthening and advancement of the Court,’ Mirzoyan said.
On December 2, within the framework of working visit to The Hague, Ararat Mirzoyan had a meeting with the President of ICC Tomoko Akane, the Armenian Foreign Ministry said.
The interlocutors exchanged views on issues on cooperation between Armenia and the International Criminal Court since the country’s accession to the Court in February of this year.
Minister Mirzoyan emphasized the commitment of Armenia to actively engage in international efforts aimed at upholding international legal norms and ensuring the rule of law.
The interlocutors also exchanged views on challenges facing the international justice system, highlighting the importance of strengthening the role of independent judicial mechanisms to adequately respond to global crises and contribute to the promotion of peace. Minister Mirzoyan emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in overcoming the challenges.
The discussion also included the ongoing efforts to further ameliorate the national legislation in line with the provisions of the Rome Statute, in particular aimed at regulating procedural aspects of cooperation with the Court.
Armenia officially joined the International Criminal Court (ICC) in February 2024. -0-
