To What Extent Are Diaspora Armenians’ Opinions Considered in Foreign Policy Decisions? Armenian Foreign Minister Elaborates

YEREVAN — Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan addressed the question of how much the opinions of Diaspora Armenians are taken into account when Armenia’s authorities make foreign policy decisions.

Mirzoyan discussed the issue during a panel held within the framework of the “Yerevan Dialogue” international forum.

“Yes, we have a large Armenian Diaspora. Yes, it is an important resource, and they are our compatriots. But we must all understand that they are citizens of different countries, and their views may not directly align with the opinions of Armenians living elsewhere.

“For example, I am not certain that the interests and priorities of Armenians living in Australia, the United Kingdom, or the United States necessarily coincide with those of Armenians living in Russia. And something even more important is that I am not sure the interests and priorities of Armenians living abroad necessarily align with the interests, priorities, and needs of Armenians living in Armenia.

“We are having a very honest discussion. I will be frank: we must understand that a significant part of the Diaspora consists of descendants of Armenian Genocide survivors. They had to flee, seek refuge, and establish their lives far away from these lands. Therefore, many Diaspora Armenians want to see a greater Armenia, a historical Armenia, an Armenia with a glorious and rich past. But today, that is a dream — it is not the Armenia that exists in reality.

“Today, we live in this region with these specific neighbors, and we do not want to spend the next decade, century, or millennium fighting with our neighbors, suffering greater casualties on the battlefield, and enduring further losses as people leave Armenia because of conflict and seek solutions in other countries,” Mirzoyan explained.

He noted that the perspectives and needs of Armenians living in Armenia may differ from the views of Armenians living abroad.

According to Mirzoyan, this is an important and complex issue that requires deep discussion and practical solutions.

“I am more than confident that a solution is emerging. I see more and more signals from Diaspora Armenians that they are beginning to understand the needs of the real Armenia. We are hearing more voices of support from the Diaspora,” the Armenian foreign minister concluded.