Armenian MP, Swedish Ambassador Discuss Human Rights

Armenia-Sweden relations are based on mutual trust, respect, and the strong partnership formed between the two countries. Especially since 2018, Armenia has chosen the path of democratic development.

This was stated by Rustam Bakoyan, Deputy Chairman of the Standing Committee on Protection of Human Rights and Public Affairs, during a meeting with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Sweden to Armenia, Eva Sundquist. The meeting took place on November 20, with committee members Ester Ayvazyan and Marina Ghazaryan also in attendance.

Rustam Bakoyan congratulated the Ambassador on the start of her diplomatic service in Armenia and wished her success in contributing to the development of relations between the two countries. As a member of the Armenia-Sweden Friendship Group of the National Assembly, Rustam Bakoyan emphasized the strengthening of parliamentary ties with Sweden.

Thanking him for the warm words and congratulations, the Ambassador also stressed the importance of further deepening relations between Sweden and Armenia. She noted that democracy and the protection of human rights are priorities for the Swedish government.

The discussion focused on issues related to the protection of the rights of vulnerable groups.

Reference was made to the legislative initiatives discussed and adopted within the committee, as well as those in the development and circulation stages, and the working discussions and parliamentary hearings held. These concerned national minorities, the protection of women's and children's rights, the prevention of domestic and family violence, the fight against discrimination, environmental protection, and the regulation of public noise. The implementation of this work has been greatly supported by the UN Development Programme, with which the committee actively and continuously cooperates.

At the Ambassador's request, Rustam Bakoyan presented the work being carried out with the Venice Commission and the Council of Europe.

Issues related to the close cooperation between Armenia and Sweden, the deepening of inter-parliamentary relations, and the activation of mutual visits were also touched upon.

Committee members Ester Ayvazyan and Marina Ghazaryan also highlighted the importance of inter-parliamentary cooperation, including on international platforms.