Harutyunyan confirms influx of Armenian settlers from Syria, Lebanon in Azerbaijani lands Baku Military Court hears

During proceedings at the Baku Military Court, defendant Arayik Harutyunyan acknowledged the settlement of Armenians arriving from Syria and Lebanon in the territories formerly occupied by Armenia in Azerbaijan.

Responding to prosecutors' inquiries, Harutyunyan detailed the demographic changes in districts including Zangilan, Gubadli, and Lachin, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

Harutyunyan stated that Armenian citizens from the Gorus and Gafan districts, which border Azerbaijan, relocated to these occupied districts. He explained that “there were ample opportunities in these districts, for example for farming. The settlers were mainly engaged in agriculture. You know the geography of Syunik region, there are no conditions for agriculture there.”

Harutyunyan further noted that Armenian settlers from within Armenia did not receive any special privileges compared to those arriving from other countries. “We did not hinder them. They chose where to live and what to do,” he said.

He also confirmed that Armenian nationals settled in Lachin and Kalbajar districts at a later stage, adding, “This happened later. Armenians did not live in Lachin district before. As far as I know, there was a similar situation in the Kalbajar district.”

The trial concerns a group of Armenian citizens accused of serious violations including crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, genocide, terrorism, financing terrorism, and forcible seizure and retention of power, among other charges. The hearings continue as the court examines evidence and testimonies.

The next session of the trial is scheduled for June 30.

By Vafa Guliyeva