Statement by H.E. Mher Margaryan, Permanent Representative of Armenia to the UN at the High Level Plenary Meeting on International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace

24 April, 2019

Madam President,

We recognize the essential role of multilateralism and diplomacy in advancing the agenda of peace, security and sustainable development. Multilateralism provides important avenues to identify and broaden the areas of potential agreement through collective and concerted efforts so as to restore faith in humanity, fundamental freedoms, human rights and international cooperation.

Madam President,

As we mark for the first time the International Day for Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace, the Armenian people in Armenia and worldwide commemorate and pay tribute to the victims of the Armenian Genocide. The 24th of April carries special meaning for the Armenian people. It marks one of the darkest pages in the history of mankind in the 20th century, when 104 years ago our people faced the ultimate crime, the crime of genocide. The Genocide is a stark reminder to what extent humanity can degrade to in the absence of strong multilateral institutions and crisis of the international order.

Today, Armenia bears special duty of advancing the human rights agenda, in particular, prevention of crimes against humanity and mass atrocities. As such, we have been at the forefront of international efforts to prevent and counter identity-based hate crimes, including the crime of genocide. The adoption of the UNGA resolution designating the 9th of December as the International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime in 2015 was a landmark achievement in this regard. Armenia hopes that the International Day for Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace will serve as another important platform to advance international cooperation for peace, development and human rights at multiple levels.

Madam President,

Multilateral institutions offer platforms where member states, regional organizations and civil society can discuss and agree on solutions to global problems that no nation acting alone can resolve. Collectively, we need to do more to reverse the alarming trend in decline of commitment to multilateralism and address the complex challenges facing the world, in a cooperative, peaceful and negotiated manner. In addressing the challenges for multilateralism, it is important to highlight the centrality of strong collaboration with regional arrangements, platforms and formats, while avoiding duplication of action.

Armenia is resolute to contribute to efforts aimed at strengthening multilateral institutions to prevent exclusion, hatred and radicalism and protect human rights and human dignity worldwide.

I thank you, Madam President.

MFA RA
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