Strasbourg, January 29 – Armenia celebrated the 25th anniversary of its membership in the Council of Europe with a commemorative event held at the Council’s headquarters in Strasbourg. Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan delivered a keynote address, reflecting on a quarter-century of political, social, and legal reforms in the country.
Armenia’s Quarter-Century of Reforms and Commitment to European Standards
Minister Mirzoyan highlighted the significant impact of Council of Europe membership on Armenia’s democratic transformation. “For me, it is a great honor to celebrate today in Strasbourg the 25th anniversary of Armenia’s membership in the Council of Europe,” stated Mirzoyan. He further elaborated, “Over the past 25 years, Armenia’s membership in the Council of Europe has been marked by political, social, and legal reforms. Our experience of cooperation with the Council of Europe testifies to our firm commitment to implementing reforms in line with European standards, while strengthening the pillars of our democracy, the rule of law, and the protection of human rights.”
These reforms, according to the Minister, have played a vital role in Armenia’s democratic development, enhancing its resilience in the face of regional challenges and contributing to a vision of a peaceful and prosperous future for the country and the entire region.
A Historic Gift: “Datastanagirk” Manuscript Presented to the Council of Europe
As a symbolic gesture to mark this historic anniversary, Minister Mirzoyan presented a manuscript reproduction of a fragment from “Datastanagirk” (Code of Law), Armenia’s first judicial code, to the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Alain Berset.
Authored by the 12th-century philosopher and legislator Mkhitar Gosh, this pivotal work is considered a cornerstone of Armenian legal thought. “Centuries ago, it laid the foundation for our understanding of the rule of law – a fundamental principle that is the vital core of the Council of Europe and the European Convention on Human Rights,” Mirzoyan explained.
The “Datastanagirk” was unanimously included in UNESCO’s “Memory of the World International Register” in April 2025, a testament to its enduring cultural and civilizational significance. “We are confident that this gift, which reflects the fundamental values shared by Armenia and the Council of Europe, will occupy its significant place in this institution, becoming a symbol of our deep respect and unwavering dedication to its principles,” the Minister added. He also emphasized that the gift reflects Armenia’s gratitude for the Council of Europe’s substantial contribution to protecting the rights and freedoms of Armenian citizens.
Commemorative Stamp and Future Prospects
Following the gift presentation ceremony, Minister Mirzoyan, along with the Secretary General and the President of the Parliamentary Assembly, participated in a special postal stamp cancellation ceremony issued by “Haypost” (Armenian Post). This stamp, dedicated to the 25th anniversary of Armenia’s membership in the Council of Europe, symbolizes shared history and common values.
Concluding his address, Minister Mirzoyan urged a forward-looking approach: “As we celebrate 25 years of partnership, let us look to the future with renewed determination to strengthen our commitments and shape a brighter and fairer future for generations to come.”
The event underscored Armenia’s continued commitment to European values and its ongoing efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and human rights within the country.
Source: https://verelq.am/hy/node/169198
