Oral question asked in the House of Lords, by Baroness Cox (Crossbench). It was answered by Baroness Royall of Blaisdon (Labour) on Thursday, 20 July 2006.

Azerbaijan: Armenian Monuments

Question: Whether they will make representations to the Government of Azerbaijan about the reported destruction of ancient Armenian monuments of cultural importance by Azeri troops in Nakhichevan.

Answer: My Lords, Her Majesty’s Government are aware of and concerned by Armenian reports of the destruction and desecration of certain monuments and artefacts in Azerbaijan. We are also aware of and concerned by reports of the destruction of Azerbaijani cultural artefacts in territories under Armenian control. We deplore such actions, no matter where or by whom they are committed. But the primary concern at this stage should be not the apportionment of blame but effective action to ensure the preservation of cultural and historical monuments on both sides of the current dispute. We consider this an issue for UNESCO to resolve and we are supporting its efforts to find a solution. We look to the Governments of Armenia and Azerbaijan, with the active engagement of UNESCO, to comply with their international commitments with regard to the safeguarding of cultural heritage.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 684 c1405
Session: 2005-06
Oral question type: Lead
Chamber / Committee: House of Lords chamber
Related items: Azerbaijan: Armenian Monuments
Monday, 24 July 2006
Written questions
House of Lords
Subjects: Conservation Ancient monuments Cultural heritage Armenia Azerbaijan
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk