Azerbaijani Flag Spotted Near Kirants Amid Border Delimitation Tensions

In a recent development, residents of Kirants village in Armenia's Tavush Province have reported the sighting of an Azerbaijani flag on a hill near the Armenia-Azerbaijan border. The flag was accompanied by Azerbaijani border guards, creating a visible symbol of the ongoing border delimitation between the two nations.

Kamo Shahinyan, the prefect of Kirants, confirmed the sighting, stating, "Where their border guards are standing, they [i.e. the Azerbaijanis] put their flag on the opposite side of our flag." This sighting has heightened tensions in the village, where residents have been actively protesting the border changes.

The border delimitation process has been controversial, with several residents of Kirants burning and demolishing their properties set to come under Azerbaijani control. Despite the Armenian government's offer of compensation, many residents have refused, opting instead to destroy their own homes.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan visited the Tavush Province on May 25 to address the concerns of the border communities. He emphasized that the demarcation process has made the border safer and more legitimate. Pashinyan stated, "We are not drawing a new border now, but we are reproducing the de jure border that existed at the moment of the collapse of the Soviet Union."

Why this matters: The sighting of the Azerbaijani flag near Kirants village in Armenia's Tavush Province has significant implications for the ongoing border delimitation process between Armenia and Azerbaijan. This development could lead to increased tensions and potential conflicts between the two nations, affecting regional stability and security.

Despite the government's assurances, opposition groups and local residents have expressed fears of increased vulnerability to Azerbaijani aggression. Protests have been led by Archbishop Bagrat Galstanian, who has staged several rallies against the demarcation process.

The border guard troops of Armenia's National Security Service have taken over the protection of the state borders in the delimited parts of the Tavush region. This includes a 5.8 km section of the Kirants settlement, which will be protected by a transitional scheme until July 24, 2024, under the border delimitation agreement.

The recent sighting of the Azerbaijani flag near Kirants highlights the ongoing tensions and complexities of the border delimitation process between Armenia and Azerbaijan. As both nations face these changes, the impact on local communities remains a critical concern.

Key Takeaways

• Azerbaijani flag spotted near Armenia-Azerbaijan border, escalating tensions.
• Border delimitation process sparks protests, property destruction in Kirants village.
• Armenian PM Pashinyan claims demarcation process makes border safer, more legitimate.
• Opposition groups, locals fear increased vulnerability to Azerbaijani aggression.
• Armenian border guards to protect delimited areas, including 5.8 km of Kirants settlement.