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                  <title>Embassy of Armenia to Switzerland and Permanent Mission of Armenia to the UN office at Geneva</title>
                  <link>https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/</link>
                  <description>Embassy of Armenia to Switzerland and Permanent Mission of Armenia to the UN office at Geneva RSS</description><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Enhancing Coherence and Follow-Up in Human Rights Implementation through Digital Tools]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2026/02/12/enhancing-coherence-and-follow-up-in-human-rights-implementation-through-digital-tools/15344]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Background and Rationale:
The international human rights protection system comprises diverse mechanisms operating at the global, regional and national levels, each grounded in distinct mandates and institutional frameworks. In this context, the effective use of digital tools has become increasingly essential to reduce duplication, fragmentation and reporting fatigue, while strengthening coherence]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Ambassador Hasmik Tolmajian delivered a statement at the event on &ldquo;Strengthening the Science-Policy Interface to Address the Triple Planetary Crises&rdquo;]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2025/12/17/ambassador-hasmik-tolmajian-delivered-a-statement-at-the-event-on-&ldquo;strengthening-the-science-policy/15176]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[On December 17, Ambassador Hasmik Tolmajian, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Armenia to the UN Office and other International Organisations in Geneva, delivered a statement at the event on &ldquo;Strengthening the Science-Policy Interface to Address the Triple Planetary Crises&rdquo; organized by the Geneva Environment Network and Switzerland.
In her speech, the Ambassador emphasized ]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[The Armenian delegation participated in the Conference Dedicated to the Global Refugee Forum Progress Review]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2025/12/17/participation-of-the-ra-delegation-in-the-conference-dedicated-to-the-global-refugee-forum-progress/15175]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[On December 15&ndash;17, 2025, in Geneva, a delegation of the Republic of Armenia, led by Karine Sujayan, Head of the Department of Human Rights and Humanitarian Issues of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia, participated in the conference dedicated to the Global Refugee Forum Progress Review.
Within the framework of the forum, Armenia participated as a speaker in three hig]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Ambassador Hasmik Tolmajian Deposits Armenia&rsquo;s Instrument of Ratification of ILO Convention No. 190 on Violence and Harassment to ILO Director-General Gilbert Houngbo]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2025/12/04/ambassador-hasmik-tolmajian-deposits-armenia&rsquo;s-instrument-of-ratification-of-ilo-convention-no-190-/15146]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[On 4 December, 2025, Ambassador Hasmik Tolmajian, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Armenia to the UN Office and other International Organisations in Geneva, formally deposited the instrument of ratification of the ILO Convention No. 190 on Violence and Harassment to ILO Director-General Gilbert Houngbo.
Following the ceremony, a bilateral meeting was held during which Ambassador Tolmaj]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[A solemn reception was held in Geneva on October 14 to mark the 34th anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Armenia.]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2025/10/14/a-solemn-reception-was-held-in-geneva-on-october-14-to-mark-the-34th-anniversary-of-the-independenc/14860]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[In her opening speech, H.E. Hasmik Tolmajian, Ambassador of Armenia to the Swiss Confederation and the Permanent Representative of Armenia to the UN Office in Geneva, emphasized that the restoration of Armenia&rsquo;s independence in 1991 fulfilled the centuries-old aspiration of the Armenian people to shape their own destiny and establish a sovereign, democratic state.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The Ambassad]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Armenia&rsquo;s participation at the 59th session of the UN Human Rights Council]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2025/07/08/armenia&rsquo;s-participation-at-the-59th-session-of-the-un-human-rights-council/14596]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[The 59 th session of the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) took place in Geneva from 16 June to 8 July 2025.
&nbsp;
The agenda of the session included interactive dialogues on issues related to the prevention of genocide, the independence of judges and lawyers, extrajudicial executions, the right to education, freedom of speech, climate change, the rights of internally displaced persons and migrants]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[A historic first diplomatic chess tournament was held at the UN Office in Geneva at the initiative of the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Armenia to the UNOG and international organizations]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2025/07/03/a-historic-first-diplomatic-chess-tournament-was-held-at-the-un-office-in-geneva-at-the-initiative-/14634]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[In celebration of World Chess Day, on July 3, 2025 at the United Nations Office in Geneva, an exclusive chess tournament was held at the initiative of the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Armenia to the UNOG and international organizations in Geneva, with the participation of the representatives of diplomatic missions, international organizations as well as civil society operating in Geneva.
]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Armenia&rsquo;s participation to the 58th session of UN Human Rights Council]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2025/04/08/Armenia&rsquo;s-participation-to-the-58th-session-of-un-human-rights-council/14217]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[The 58th&nbsp;session of the UN Human Rights Council took place from 24 February to 4 April 2025 in Geneva.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia H.E. Mr. Ararat Mirzoyan participated in the High-Level Segment of the session and delivered a national statement. During his visit, the Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan held official meetings with the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rig]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Ambassador Hasmik Tolmajian, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Armenia to the UN Office and other International Organizations in Geneva, met with Ambassador Nathalie Chuard, Director of the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF)]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2025/04/04/ambassador-hasmik-tolmajian-permanent-representative-of-the-republic-of-armenia-to-the-un-office-an/14209]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Ambassador Hasmik Tolmajian, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Armenia to the UN Office and other International Organizations in Geneva, met with Ambassador Nathalie Chuard, Director of the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF), to explore ways to enhance cooperation in the field of security governance.
During the meeting, Ambassador Tolmajian congratulated DCAF on its 25t]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Ambassador Hasmik Tolmajian, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Armenia to the UN Office and other International Organisations in Geneva, met with Ambassador Thomas Greminger, Executive Director of the Geneva Centre for Security Policy (GCSP]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2025/04/01/ambassador-hasmik-tolmajian-permanent-representative-of-the-republic-of-armenia-to-the-un-office-an/14200]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Ambassador Hasmik Tolmajian, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Armenia to the UN Office and other International Organisations in Geneva, met with Ambassador Thomas Greminger, Executive Director of the Geneva Centre for Security Policy (GCSP), to discuss issues related to cooperation in the area of international and regional security and peacebuilding.
During the meeting, the parties emp]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Joint Statement  on Digital technologies and the rights of women and girls]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2025/03/29/joint-statement-on-digital-technologies-and-the-rights-of-women-and-girls/14173]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[I have the honor to present this joint statement on behalf of 70 states, including Estonia, France, Japan, Chile, Costa Rica, Kenya, which together with my country form a part of the cross-regional core group.
We affirm our commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls and underline that the full enjoyment of all human rights by women and girls must be respected, protec]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Political Consultations between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia and the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2025/03/28/political-consultations-between-the-ministry-of-foreign-affairs-of-armenia-and-the-federal-departme/14176]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[On March 28, political consultations took place in Bern between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia and the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of the Swiss Confederation. The delegations were led by the Director of the European Department of the Foreign Ministry of Armenia, Ambassador Samvel Mkrtchyan and the Head of the Eurasia Division of the Federal Department of Forei]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Policy Statement on Foreign Direct Investment in Armenia has been issued]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2025/03/25/policy-statement-on-foreign-direct-investment-in-armenia/14164]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[The&nbsp;Investment Policy Statement on Foreign Direct Investment in Armenia has been issued, which confirms the commitment of the Republic of Armenia to ensure an open, transparent and predictable investment environment.
The document sets out the main directions of Armenia&rsquo;s investment policy, including facilitating the regulation of foreign investment, the availability of a qualified work]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Ambassador Hasmik Tolmajian, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Armenia to the UN Office and other International Organisations in Geneva, held a meeting with Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO)]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2025/03/25/ambassador-hasmik-tolmajian-permanent-representative-of-the-republic-of-armenia-to-the-un-office-an/14166]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[On 25 March, 2025, the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Armenia to the UN Office and other International Organisations in Geneva, Ambassador Hasmik Tolmajian, held a meeting with the Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), Gilbert F. Houngbo, at the ILO headquarters in Geneva.
During the meeting, the two dignitaries discussed key areas of collaboration aimed at]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[H. E. Ms. Hasmik Tolmajian, Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia to Swiss Confederation met with  H.E. Mr. Alexandre Fasel, State Secretary of the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2025/03/18/h-e-ms-hasmik-tolmajian-ambassador-of-the-republic-of-armenia-to-swiss-confederation-met-with-h-e-m/14121]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[On 18 March 2025, the Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia to Swiss Confederation, H. E. Ms. Hasmik Tolmajian, had a meeting with the State Secretary of the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Mr. Alexandre Fasel. The meeting underscored the strong and growing bilateral relations between Armenia and Switzerland based on shared values and mutual respect.
During the discussions, both]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 58th Session Annual discussion on the Rights of the Children]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2025/03/13/hrc-58th-session-annual-discussion-on-the-rights-of-the-children/14096]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Hello, I am Anna, a member of the Public Council on the Protection of Children&#039;s Rights adjunct the Human Rights Defender of the Republic of Armenia. I am happy to be provided with this opportunity to deliver a message on behalf of the children of Armenia from the high podium of the United Nations.
Early childhood is associated with a warm, carefree, and safe family environment for children. Unfo]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 58th Session։ Annual discussion on the Rights of the Children]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2025/03/13/hrc-58th-session։-annual-discussion-on-the-rights-of-the-children/14095]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Thank you Mr. President,
My name is Hrachya, and I am 8 years old. Thank you for giving us children the opportunity to talk to adults.
I am very happy to be here today to talk about what is important to us children.
Childhood is a time when we learn to walk, talk, and understand the world around us. It is when we make our first friends, play, and dream about the future. But not all children exp]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Permanent Representative Hasmik Tolmajian meets with Mr. Arnold Kreilhuber, UNEP Regional Director for Europe]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2025/02/11/permanent-representative-hasmik-tolmajian-met-with-mr-arnold-kreilhuber-unep-regional-director-for-/13965]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Today, Permanent Representative Hasmik Tolmajian met with Mr. Arnold Kreilhuber, UNEP Regional Director for Europe, to discuss collaborative efforts on environmental sustainability and climate action. Ambassador Tolmajian highlighted Armenia&#039;s strong environmental commitments and active engagement in multilateral environmental processes aiming to enhance international efforts for preserving natura]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[H.E. Ambassador Hasmik Tolmajian presented copies of her credentials to the Head of Protocol of the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, H.E Ambassador T&eacute;rence Billeter]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2025/02/06/the-newly-appointed-ambassador-of-the-republic-of-armenia-to-the-swiss-confederation-h-e-ambassador/13962]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[The newly appointed Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia to the Swiss Confederation, H.E. Ambassador Hasmik Tolmajian presented copies of her credentials to the Head of Protocol of the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, H.E Ambassador&nbsp;T&eacute;rence Billeter.
&nbsp;Emphasizing the longstanding friendly ties between the two countries, Ambassador Tolmajian noted that Armenia has alw]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Ambassador Hasmik Tolmajian, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Armenia meets with Volker T&uuml;rk, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2025/01/03/ambassador-hasmik-tolmajian-permanent-representative-of-the-republic-of-armenia-meets-with-volker-t/13751]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[On January 3, Ambassador Hasmik Tolmajian, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Armenia to the UN Office in Geneva and other international organizations, met with Volker T&uuml;rk, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.
During the meeting, the interlocutors discussed in detail issues of mutual interest in the field of human rights.
Both sides highly appreciated Armenia&rsquo;s]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Armenia-France Friendship Room Inaugurated at the United Nations Office in Geneva]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/10/31/armenia-france-friendship-room-inaugurated-at-the-united-nations-office-in-geneva/13511]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[On October 31, the Armenia-France Friendship Room was inaugurated at the United Nations Office in Geneva. This room, designated for international meetings and events, is now named to honor the longstanding friendship between Armenia and France. As part of the dedication, large-scale artworks by painter Jean Boghossian were installed in the room&mdash;one symbolizing Armenia, the other symbolizing ]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Interview with Ambassador Andranik Hovhannisyan in Le Monde &Eacute;conomique]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/10/23/interview-with-ambassador-andranik-hovhannisyan-in-le-monde-&eacute;conomique/13500]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Ambassador of Armenia to Switzerland, Andranik Hovhannisyan, gave an in-depth interview to the Swiss publication&nbsp;Le Monde &Eacute;conomique. In the interview, he discussed the state of Armenian-Swiss relations, trade and economic cooperation, and joint business ventures between the two countries. Ambassador Hovhannisyan highlighted Armenia&#039;s investment climate and the various business opportu]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Swiss legislators call for international peace forum on Nagorno-Karabakh conflict]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/10/22/swiss-legislators-call-for-international-peace-forum-on-nagorno-karabakh-conflict/13476]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[YEREVAN, OCTOBER 16, ARMENPRESS. Swiss legislators have introduced a motion calling for an international peace forum on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict to be organized by the Federal Council of Switzerland.
&ldquo;The aim is to facilitate an open dialogue between Azerbaijan and representatives of the Nagorno-Karabakh Armenians, conducted under international supervision or in the presence of interna]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Deputy Foreign Minister of Armenia Vahan Kostanyan participated in the 75th session of the UNHCR Executive Committee]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/10/15/deputy-foreign-minister-of-armenia-vahan-kostanyan-participated-in-the-75th-session-of-the-unhcr-ex/13485]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[On October 15, in Geneva, Deputy Foreign Minister of the Republic of Armenia Vahan Kostanyan participated and delivered remarks at the 75th Session of the Executive Committee of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).&nbsp;
In his remarks, the Deputy Minister touched upon the issue of over 115,000 refugees from Nagorno-Karabakh, who were subjected to ethnic cleansing due to Aze]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Armenia&rsquo;s participation at the 57th Session of the UN Human Rights Council.]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/10/11/armenia&rsquo;s-participation-at-the-57th-session-of-the-un-human-rights-council/13423]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[The 57th Session of the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) took place in Geneva from 09 September to 11 October 2024.
The interactive dialogues and panel discussions of the 57th Session of the HRC focused on key issues on the Council&rsquo;s agenda, such as truth, justice, reparation and guarantees of non-recurrence, the use of mercenaries, arbitrary detention, the right to safe drinking water and san]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57 Session. Item 9. General Debate]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/10/10/HRC 57 Session. Item 9. General Debate/13407]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Hrachuhi Katvalyan, Deputy Permanent Representative
President,
After nine-months-long inhumane siege of Nagorno-Karabakh, in flagrant violation of the two Orders of the International Court of Justice, Azerbaijan launched an unprovoked attack, killing hundreds and forcibly displacing over 100,000 people from their ancestral homes. The ICJ observed that Armenians were &ldquo;compelled]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57: General Debate. Item 10, Right of Reply to Azerbaijan]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/10/09/hrc-57-general-debate-item-10/13409]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[President,
Armenia exercises its right of reply to Azerbaijan.
We would like to recall that there were around 500.000 Armenians living in Soviet Azerbaijan at the end of 1980s. There are literally non today. They were massacred and deported.
The ethnic cleansing of Nagorno-Karabakh was another stage of the policy of hatred and discrimination. The International Court of Justice observed that (an]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Two-day discussions related to Armenia were held in Switzerland in the framework of 12th Festival &ldquo;When East Meets West&rdquo;]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/10/07/two-day-discussions-related-to-armenia-were-held-in-switzerland-in-the-framework-of-12th-festival-&ldquo;/13412]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Two-day discussions related to Armenia were held on October 7-8 at Chateau Mercier in town of Sierre at Valais canton of Switzerland in the framework of the 12th Festival &ldquo;When East Meets West&rdquo;.
The Ambassador of Armenia to Switzerland Andranik Hovahannisian made opening remarks. He presented the democratic path adopted by Armenia after the revolution of 2018, spoke about military agg]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57 Session. Item 8. General Debate]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/10/03/hrc-57-session-item-8-general-debate/13393]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Ms. Lilit Toutkhalian, Minister Extraordinary and Envoy Plenipotentiary
&nbsp;
Mr. President,
The Vienna Declaration and Program of Action recognize that all parties to armed conflicts should strictly observe international humanitarian law, as set forth in the Geneva Conventions of 1949 and other rules and principles of international law.
In this regard, we reiterate that prisoner]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57th Session: Item 5. General Debate]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/10/02/hrc-57th-session-item-5-general-debate/13384]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Ms. Nelli Petrosyan, Human Rights Officer
&nbsp;
President,
The Treaty Bodies and Special Procedures are indispensable instruments of the UN human rights machinery&rsquo;s early warning capacity. The effective cooperation with them greatly contributes to further enhancement of promotion and protection of human rights and prevention efforts. Armenia emphasizes the importance of cons]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57th Session Item 6: Adoption of UPR Outcomes of Vanuatu]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/10/01/hrc-57th-session-item-6-adoption-of-upr-outcomes-of-vanuatu/13391]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[President,
Armenia thanks Vanuatu for its constrictive engagement throughout the UPR process.
We welcome Vanuatu for accepting the majority of recommendations which demonstrate its continued commitment to advancing human rights and sustainable development for all its people. However, we regret that one of our recommendations was noted and would like to reiterate to consider ratifying the Genocid]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57th Session Annual discussion on the integration of a gender perspective throughout the work of the Human Rights Council and that of its mechanisms]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/30/hrc-57th-session-annual-discussion-on-the-integration-of-a-gender-perspective-throughout-the-work-o/13385]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[President,
Armenia welcomes the panelists and thanks them for valuable insights.
In recent years, Armenia has made significant strides in the Global Gender Gap Index, achieving a gender parity score of 72% in 2024 and ranking 64th out of 146 countries. This makes Armenia the highest-ranked country in the region.
Gender integration in human rights investigations, particularly from a victim-cente]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57th Session: Item 6: UPR Outcome adoption &ndash; Chile]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/27/hrc-57th-session-item-6-upr-outcome-adoption-&ndash;-chile/13390]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[President,
Armenia welcomes the distinguished delegation of Chile. We appreciate Chile&rsquo;s engagement in the Universal Periodic Review process and its commitment to the protection and promotion of human rights.
We are pleased to note that Chile supported the majority of recommendations suggested during the 46th session of the UPR Working Group, including all recommendations of Armenia. We no]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 54: ID on SG report on reprisals]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/27/hrc-54-id-on-sg-report-on-reprisals/13368]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[President,
A strong and effective human rights system is essential for robust multilateral cooperation. Therefore, we are deeply concerned by reports of increasing reprisals and intimidation against those who engage or seek to engage with the United Nations, as this undermines both human rights and multilateralism.
We concur with the SG&rsquo;s report that shrinking civic space and restrictions ]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[The UN Special Procedure Mandate Holders published an allegation on enforced disappearance of 23 Armenian servicemen and 1 civilian by Azerbaijan]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/27/the-un-special-procedure-mandate-holders-published-an-allegation-on-enforced-disappearance-of-23-ar/13482]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[On September 27 four UN human rights mandate holders - Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances, Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, Special Rapporteur on the promotion of truth, justice, reparation and guarantees of non-recurrencethe issued a joint communication addressed to Azerbaijan. It refers to enforced di]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 54rd Session. Item 3 &ndash; ID with SR on Rights of Indigenous People]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/27/hrc-54rd-session-item-3-&ndash;-id-with-sr-on-rights-of-indigenous-people/13366]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Ms. Lilit Toutkhalian, Minister Extraordinary and Envoy Plenipotentiary
&nbsp;
Mr. President,
A year ago, the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh were expelled from the land of their ancestors, where they had lived for thousands of years. They left behind not only their property but also a vast historic, cultural, and religious heritage. This includes fortresses, palaces, churches, and m]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57th Session: Item 3&amp;5: Interactive dialogue with Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples &ndash; EMRIP]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/26/hrc-57th-session-item-3-5-interactive-dialogue-with-expert-mechanism-on-the-rights-of-indigenous-pe/13365]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[President,
Armenia thanks the Expert Mechanism for its report.
We would like to draw the attention of this august body to the dramatic and alarming demographic shifts that have occurred over the past century in Azerbaijan, particularly concerning the fate of ethnic minorities and indigenous peoples. According to official statistics from 1939, the Azerbaijani ethnic group comprised slightly more ]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57th Session: Item 4: General Debate]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/25/hrc-57th-session-item-4-general-debate/13364]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Mrs. Elen Harutyunyan, Counsellor 
&nbsp;
Mr. President,
A year ago, Azerbaijan committed ethnic cleansing in Nagorno-Karabakh. Even after this horrific crime, Azerbaijan still continues to threaten human rights in our region. Now, Azerbaijan has begun falsifying the history and inventing fabricated geographic references to the Republic Armenia, its towns and villages, claiming tha]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57: Panel on States&rsquo; obligations on the role of the family in supporting human rights of its members]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/25/hrc-57-panel-on-states&rsquo;-obligations-on-the-role-of-the-family-in-supporting-human-rights-of-its-mem/13389]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Mrs. Anush Gharabaghtsyan, Attach&eacute;
&nbsp;
President,
My delegation would like to thank the panelists for their insightful presentations.
Armenia recognizes the family as the cornerstone of our society, and our commitment to upholding the human rights of every family member remains a central tenet of our government&rsquo;s agenda.
In recent years, we have made considerable ]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Foreign Ministers&rsquo; Meeting of the Ancient Civilizations Forum]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/25/foreign-ministers&rsquo;-meeting-of-the-ancient-civilizations-forum/13359]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Following the Foreign Ministers&rsquo; Meeting of the Ancient Civilizations Forum on the margins of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly a Joint Press Statement was adopted with participation of Armenia, China, Greece and Peru. The statement emphasizes:
&nbsp;
&ldquo;Emphasized that the unlawful destruction of cultural heritage, and the looting and smuggling of cultural proper]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Meeting of the Foreign Minister of Armenia and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/24/meeting-of-the-foreign-minister-of-armenia-and-the-un-high-commissioner-for-human-rights/13362]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[On the sidelines of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan had a meeting with Volker T&uuml;rk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
&nbsp;
During the meeting, issues of continuous cooperation between Armenia and the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights were discussed.
On the way to the establishme]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Meeting of Foreign Ministers of Armenia and Switzerland]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/24/meeting-of-foreign-ministers-of-armenia-and-switzerland/13361]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan had a meeting with Ignazio Cassis, the Head of The Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly.
Regional security issues were at the center of discussions during the meeting.
Minister Mirzoyan presented the latest developments in ]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Meeting of the Foreign Minister of Armenia and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/24/meeting-of-the-foreign-minister-of-armenia-and-the-un-high-commissioner-for-refugees/13360]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[On the sidelines of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan met with Filippo Grandi, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees.
&nbsp;
The interlocutors discussed issues on the continuous cooperation between Armenia and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.
The sides touched upon the steps taken b]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57th Session: Item 3: General Debate]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/21/hrc-57th-session-item-3-general-debate/13327]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Hrachuhi&nbsp;Katvalyan, Deputy Permanent Representative
President,
The path to peace lays through the full respect for all human rights &ndash; civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights. States that are notorious for violations of these rights may also likely threaten the peace. And this is exactly what happened in our region where the pattern of gross violations of hu]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57. Item 3. ID with WG on enforced disappearances]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/21/HRC 57. Item 3. ID with WG on enforced disappearances/13326]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Mrs. Hrachuhi Katvalyan, Deputy Permanent Representative
President,
Armenia welcomes the Working Group and commends its commitment to the advancement of the mandate. &nbsp;
We agree with observations that growing decline in the rule of law and democratic principles had a negative impact on right not to be subjected to enforced disappearances. We believe that States that practice en]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57 Session: Item 3 &ndash; Interactive Dialogue with the Working group on the use of mercenaries as a means of violating human rights and impeding exercise of the right of peoples to self- determination]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/21/HRC 57 Session: Item 3 &ndash; Interactive Dialogue with the Working group on the use of mercenaries as a means of violating human rights and impeding exercise of the right of peoples to self- determination/13325]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[&nbsp;
Delivered by Mrs. Hrachuhi Katvalyan, Deputy Permanent Representative
President,
Armenia welcomes the Working Group on Mercenaries.
We highly appreciate the productive cooperation developed with the Working Group, which has been especially effective during its visit last year to Armenia. We were particularly glad that the Working Group specifically commended Armenia for its commitment t]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57: Interactive dialogue with the Working Group on the rights of peasants]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/18/hrc-57-interactive-dialogue-with-the-working-group-on-the-rights-of-peasants/13388]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Mrs. Anush Gharabaghtsyan, Attach&eacute;
&nbsp;
President,
Armenia welcomes the creation of the UN Working Group on the Rights of Peasants and Other People Working in Rural Areas. This is an important initiative that can contribute to greater protection of human rights globally.
Agriculture is a key sector of Armenia&rsquo;s economy, providing around 12% of our GDP and employing ]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57 Session. Panel on Quality Education for Peace and Tolerance for Every Child]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/18/hrc-57-session-panel-on-quality-education-for-peace-and-tolerance-for-every-child/13340]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Ms. Lilit Toutkhalian, Minister Extraordinary and Envoy Plenipotentiary
&nbsp;
Mr. President,
Armenia thanks the panelists for insightful presentations.
The strengthening of the right to education firstly solidifies our existing commitments in the international legal framework and secondly, it has a long-term impact on the socio-economic development of States.
Toward that goal, f]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57th Session: Item 3: Interactive dialogue with Special Rapporteur on hazardous substances and wastes]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/17/hrc-57th-session-item-3-interactive-dialogue-with-special-rapporteur-on-hazardous-substances-and-wa/13343]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[President,
Armenia thanks the Special Rapporteur for the report.
We believe that transparent, accessible pollution information portals empower States to safeguard public health, promote accountability, and facilitate effective participation in environmental decision-making.
President,
It is truly regrettable that Azerbaijan abuses the platform of the HRC to disseminate ungrounded allegations a]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57: Item 3։ ID with WG on arbitrary detention]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/17/hrc-57-item-3։-id-with-wg-on-arbitrary-detention/13339]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Mrs. Elen Harutyunyan, Counsellor 
&nbsp;
President,&nbsp;
Armenia would like to once again draw the attention of the Working Group to the plight of Armenian prisoners of war and civilian detainees in Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan acknowledges that it holds in captivity 23 Armenians in the context of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Some of them are behind the bars for almost four years in ]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57: Interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on International Order]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/16/hrc-57-interactive-dialogue-with-the-independent-expert-on-international-order/13387]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Mrs. Anush Gharabaghtsyan, Attach&eacute;
&nbsp;
President,
Armenia warmly congratulates the Independent Expert on taking up the mandate and thanks for the insightful report.
As we work to build a more democratic and equitable international order, Armenia believes that the path forward lies in bridging divides, strengthening regional cooperation, and harnessing the power of connec]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57th Session Item 3: ID with Special Rapporteur on the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/16/hrc-57th-session-item-3-id-with-special-rapporteur-on-the-human-rights-to-safe-drinking-water-and-s/13342]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Ms Anna Sargsyan, Second Secretary
&nbsp;
President,
Armenia welcomes the Special Rapporteur and thanks for his report.
Protection, reasonable use and proper management of water resources play a key role for the socio-economic development of any country. Armenia is not an exception.
In our efforts for enhancing social justice, ecological sustainability and economic efficiency in ]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC57: Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the negative impact of unilateral coercive measures on the enjoyment of human rights]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/13/hrc57-item-3-interactive-dialogue-with-the-special-rapporteur-on-the-negative-impact-of-unilateral-/13344]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Ms. Lilit Toutkhalian, Minister Plenipotentiary and Envoy Extraordinary
&nbsp;
Mr. President,
Armenia takes note of the reports presented for this session. With regard to the SR&rsquo;s visit to China, we encourage further cooperation between the UN human rights machinery and PRC and take this opportunity to reiterate Armenia&rsquo;s adherence to one China policy.
Armenia has been]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57th Session. Item 3.  ID with Independent Expert on the enjoyment of all human rights by older persons]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/13/hrc-57th-session-item-3-id-with-independent-expert-on-the-enjoyment-of-all-human-rights-by-older-pe/13341]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[President,
Armenia thanks Ms Claudia Mahler for the thematic analysis on this critical issue.
Older persons have the inherent right to make decisions about their own lives. Legal capacity is a cornerstone of human dignity as well as the principle of informed consent is essential.&nbsp;
The Armenian Government works on adoption of strategic documents aimed at ensuring active, healthy and dignifi]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57 Session: Item 3 &ndash; Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion of truth, justice, reparation and guarantees of non-recurrence]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/12/hrc-57-session-item-3-&ndash;-interactive-dialogue-with-the-special-rapporteur-on-the-promotion-of-truth-/13299]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Ambassador Andranik Hovhannisyan, Permanent Representative
&nbsp;
Mr. President,
Armenia warmly welcomes Mr. Bernard Duhaime, the newly appointed Special Rapporteur on the promotion of truth, justice, reparation and guarantees of non-recurrence and wishes him all the success in his endeavors.&nbsp;&nbsp;
We would also like to thank Mr. Fabi&aacute;n Salvioli for the considerable w]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57 Session: Item 2 &ndash; General Debate]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/11/hrc-57-session-item-2-&ndash;-general-debate/13298]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Ambassador Andranik Hovhannisyan, Permanent Representative
&nbsp;
Mr. President,
Almost a year ago Azerbaijan committed an ethnic cleansing in Nagorno-Karabakh. We would like to recall that 40 UN member states delivered a Joint Statement at the HRC expressing in this regard &ldquo;extreme concern by the dire humanitarian and human rights crisis in Nagorno-Karabakh&rdquo; and &amp;ldquo]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 57: Panel on economic, social and cultural rights within the context of addressing inequalities]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/09/11/hrc-57-panel-on-economic-social-and-cultural-rights-within-the-context-of-addressing-inequalities/13386]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Mrs. Anush Gharabaghtsyan, Attach&eacute;
&nbsp;
President,
Armenia thanks the panelists for their insightful presentations. Notwithstanding the significant transformations in the past decades, Armenia has always prioritized its commitment for upholding fundamental rights for all its citizens.
We have made significant strides in recent years towards achieving SDG 10 on reducing in]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Second Session of the Preparatory Committee for the 2026 Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/07/24/second-session-of-the-preparatory-committee-for-the-2026-review-conference-of-the-parties-to-the-tr/13166]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by H.E. Mr. Andranik HOVHANNISYAN, Permanent Representative of Armenia to the UN Office and other international organizations in Geneva
Distinguished Mr. Chairman,
At the outset I would like to congratulate you, Mr. Chairman, for assuming your responsibilities and to assure you of Armenia&rsquo;s firm support.
Armenia reiterates its unwavering commitment to the principles of the Treat]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Armenia&rsquo;s participation at the 56th session of the UN Human Rights Council]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/07/12/armenia&rsquo;s-participation-at-the-56th-session-of-the-un-human-rights-council/13141]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[The 56th session of the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) took place in Geneva on June 18 -July 12, 2024.
The agenda of the session included interactive dialogues and panel discussions on issues related to violence against women, extrajudicial executions, freedom of speech, climate change, rights of internally displaced persons and migrants, as well as the impact of modern technologies on human right]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 56: ID with SR on Racism]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/07/08/hrc-56-id-with-sr-on-racism/13132]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Ms. Lilit Toutkhalian, Minister Extraordinary and Envoy Plenipotentiary
&nbsp;
Mr. President,
Armenia welcomes the Special Rapporteur and thanks for her timely report.
The glorification of Nazism is closely intertwined with other practices fueling contemporary forms of racism, discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance.&nbsp;&nbsp;
This policy has been for years cultivate]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC56: Statement of Armenia at the ID with Special Rapporteur on Belarus]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/07/03/hrc56-statement-of-armenia-at-the-id-with-special-rapporteur-on-belarus/13126]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[President,
Armenia takes careful note of the report by the Special Rapporteur on Belarus. We reiterate that all human rights are universal, indivisible, interdependent and interrelated. and the states have the primary responsibility to promote, protect and fulfil those rights in line with their obligations and commitments.
We deplore to note that the situation with human rights and fundamental f]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC56: Item 3: ID on OHCHR report on new and emerging technologies]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/07/03/hrc56-item-3-id-on-ohchr-report-on-new-and-emerging-technologies/13123]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by H.E. Andranik Hovhannisyan, Permanent Representative
Mr. President,
We would like to thank the OHCHR for the report.&nbsp;
We agree that addressing offline realities, which constitute the underlying drivers of technological misuse is essential for uprooting online hatred, racial discrimination, division, exclusion and intolerance.
We further agree with the observation that interna]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 56: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/07/03/hrc-56-interactive-dialogue-with-the-special-rapporteur-on-extrajudicial-summary-or-arbitrary-executions/13117]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Ms. Hrachuhi Katvalyan, Deputy Permanent Representative
President,
Armenia concurs with the Special Rapporteur that State obligations require effective protection and investigation of the dead, particularly in the context of the conflict situations.
In this regard, we note the references of his mandate to the pattern of extrajudicial executions of ethnic Armenians committed by arme]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 56th Session: Item 3 &ndash; Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/07/02/hrc-56th-session-item-3-&ndash;-interactive-dialogue-with-the-special-rapporteur-on-extreme-poverty-and-h/13119]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Ms. Nelli Petrosyan, Human Rights Officer
&nbsp;
Mr. President,
We thank the Special Rapporteur for his insightful report focused on poverty eradication in a post-growth context.
We are convinced that increased investments in the provision of universal basic services contributes to the realization of human rights and the reduction of inequalities. In this regard, the Government of]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 56 the Session: Item 4 &ndash; Annual Panel on Adverse Impacts of Climate Change]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/07/01/hrc-56-the-session-item-4-&ndash;-annual-panel-on-adverse-impacts-of-climate-change/13121]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Ms. Lilit Toutkhalian, Minister Extraordinary and Envoy Plenipotentiary 
&nbsp;
Mr. President,
Being fully cognizant of the adverse impact of climate change, Armenia is ready to shoulder its share of responsibility to mitigate the already visible negative impact of climate change on our planet. Toward that end, Armenia is committed by 2030 to double its share of renewables in energ]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 56: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on climate change]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/07/01/hrc-56-interactive-dialogue-with-the-special-rapporteur-on-climate-change/13128]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Mrs. Anush Gharabaghtsyan, Attach&eacute;
&nbsp;
President,
Armenia welcomes the Special Rapporteur and thanks for conceptualizing his vision and priorities in the report. Needless to say, that the climate change is a priority concern of a global nature that does not respect borders and spare any nation.
Armenia is deeply concerned about the escalating impact of the climate change]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 56th Session Quadrennial Panel on Promoting Human Rights Through Sport and the Olympic Ideal]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/07/01/hrc-56th-session-quadrennial-panel-on-promoting-human-rights-through-sport-and-the-olympic-ideal/13114]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[President,
Armenia thanks the panelists for their insightful presentations. This is a timely discussion just weeks before the start of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
Armenia recognizes the important role that the sports can play in fostering social inclusion, diversity, promoting gender equality, mutual respect and tolerance. We further acknowledge that sports can empower individuals and commu]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 56th Session: Annual Discussion on Women&rsquo;s Rights]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/06/28/hrc-56th-session-annual-discussion-on-women&rsquo;s-rights/13122]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Ms. Lilit Toutkhalian, Minister Extraordinary and Envoy Plenipotentiary 
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Mr. President,
&nbsp;
In its last concluding observations, the UN CEDAW welcomed Armenia&rsquo;s efforts to improve its institutional and policy frameworks aimed at promoting gender equality. Indeed, much has been achieved in this regard.
The participation of Armenian women in the national par]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 56: Item 3 - Interactive dialogue with Special Rapporteur on the Rights to Freedom of Peaceful Assembly and of Association]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/06/28/hrc-56-item-3-interactive-dialogue-with-special-rapporteur-on-the-rights-to-freedom-of-peaceful-ass/13118]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Mr. Hambardzum Minasyan, First Secretary
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Mr. President,
We welcome the newly appointed Special Rapporteur and thank her for the Report.
Armenia&rsquo;s commitment to democratic values and human rights remains irreversible. Two days ago, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe commended Armenia for its continuous commitment to democratic development in sp]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 56th Session ID with WG on discrimination against women and girls]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/06/27/hrc-56th-session-id-with-wg-on-discrimination-against-women-and-girls/13104]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[President,
Armenia thanks the Working Group for the report.
According to the Global Gender Gap Report 2023, Armenia is a regional leader ranking 61st out of the 146 countries.
The Gender Policy Implementation Strategy of Armenia for 2024-2028 is in the process of being submitted for approval to the Government. The Strategy identifies six gender policy priorities in the areas of governance and d]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 56th Session: Item 3 &ndash; Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on trafficking in persons, especially in women and children]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/06/27/hrc-56th-session-item-3-&ndash;-interactive-dialogue-with-the-special-rapporteur-on-trafficking-in-person/13102]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Ms. Nelli Petrosyan, Human Rights Officer 
&nbsp;
President,
We thank the Special Rapporteur for her comprehensive report focused on the prevention of trafficking in persons in the context of migration at sea.
We share her conviction that human trafficking inherently threatens human dignity and the fundamental freedoms of its victims, making it fundamentally incompatible with a de]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 56: Interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on international solidarity]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/06/27/hrc-56-interactive-dialogue-with-the-independent-expert-on-international-solidarity/13129]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Mrs. Anush Gharabaghtsyan, Attach&eacute;
&nbsp;
President,
We thank the Independent Expert for her report.
Armenia has a firsthand experience on the crucial role that the civil society can play in galvanizing the international solidarity and cooperation, especially during the crisis situations. It was especially vivid during the devastating earthquake that struck Armenia in 1988.]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 56th Session: Item 3 &ndash; ID with WG on the issue of human rights and transnational corporations and other business enterprises]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/06/26/hrc-56th-session-item-3-&ndash;-id-with-wg-on-the-issue-of-human-rights-and-transnational-corporations-an/13100]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Ms. Nelli Petrosyan, Human Rights Officer
Mr. President,
We thank the Working Group for presenting its report.
The UN Guiding Principles stipulate that meaningful consultation with affected groups, Indigenous Peoples and local communities is a crucial part of the identification of actual and potential human rights impacts of investments. The consultations should be undertaken with ]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 56th Session: Item 3 &ndash; Interactive dialogue with Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Opinion and Expression]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/06/26/hrc-56th-session-item-3-&ndash;-interactive-dialogue-with-special-rapporteur-on-freedom-of-opinion-and-ex/13099]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Hambardzum Minasyan, First Secretary &nbsp;
&nbsp;
President,
Armenia welcomes the SR and thanks for the Report.
The freedom of expression is a fundemantal right and the lifeblood of democracy. For several years in a row Armenia improves its position in the World Press Freedom Index. This year we are ranked on 43rd position, which marks a notable improvement of six notches. For a ]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 56th Session: Item 3: interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/06/25/hrc-56th-session-item-3-interactive-dialogue-with-the-special-rapporteur-on-the-independence-of-jud/13101]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Ms. Nelli Petrosyan, Human Rights Officer
&nbsp;
President,
&nbsp;
We thank the Special Rapporteur for her report on the role of justice systems in safeguarding democracy. We concur that judicial independence plays an important role in securing participatory rights. It is in this spirit that Armenia has adopted the 2022-2026 Strategy for Judicial and Legal reforms, which encompass]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 56 th Session: Item 3 - ID with the Special Rapporteur on Migrants]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/06/25/hrc-56-th-session-item-3-id-with-the-special-rapporteur-on-migrants/13096]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Ms. Lilit Toutkhalian, Minister Extraordinary and Envoy Plenipotentiary 
&nbsp;
Mr. President,
Armenia thanks the Special Rapporteur for the report.
As a country with considerable migrant communities around the world and also the one that hosts migrants as well as refugees, Armenia has a first-hand knowledge and experience on the plight of displaced people and migrants, but also o]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 56: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on education, Right to Reply]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/06/25/hrc-56-interactive-dialogue-with-the-special-rapporteur-on-education-right-to-reply/13094]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[1st Right of Reply
Delivered by&nbsp;
&nbsp;
President,
Armenia refutes all groundless allegations of Azerbaijan.
Yesterday a government decree was issued in Azerbaijan to extend the special quarantine regime on its territory (and I quote) &ldquo;in order to prevent the spread of coronavirus infection, the COVID-19 (end of quote).&rdquo;
While there is a clear irony here, there may also be s]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 56: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on education]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/06/24/hrc-56-interactive-dialogue-with-the-special-rapporteur-on-education/13093]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Mrs. Anush Gharabaghtsyan, Attach&eacute;
&nbsp;
President,
Armenia welcomes the Special Rapporteur and thanks for the report. We underscore the importance of inclusive, equitable and quality education for all.
Armenia&#039;s Constitution and laws provide robust protections for academic freedom and the autonomy of universities. Article 38 of the Constitution guarantees the right of hig]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[ID with SR on the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/06/24/id-with-sr-on-the-right-of-everyone-to-the-enjoyment-of-the-highest-attainable-standard-of-physical/13089]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[President,
Armenia thanks the SR for the report.
Drug use disorders are multifactorial health conditions that should be responded by national health care systems through non-discriminatory treatment, harm reduction and rehabilitation grounded in justice and human rights and guaranteeing non-stigmatization.
Armenia remains committed to ensuring effective implementation of the three International]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 56th Session: Item 3 - ID with the Special Rapporteur on Violence against Women and Girls]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/06/21/hrc-56th-session-item-3-id-with-the-special-rapporteur-on-violence-against-women-and-girls/13091]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Ms. Lilit Toutkhalian, Minister Extraordinary and Envoy Plenipotentiary 
&nbsp;
Mr. President,
Armenia thanks Special Rapporteur for the report.
Even though the it focuses primarily on the causes and consequences of prostitution, the scope of the report is much larger touching upon a wider scale of human rights protection.
We are particularly concerned with gender stereotyping an]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 56th Session: ID with Special Rapporteur on IDPs]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/06/21/hrc-56th-session-id-with-special-rapporteur-on-idps/13090]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Vice-President,
We thank the Special Rapporteur for her Report.
Armenia is concerned about the increasing displacement figures globally.
As an affected country, Armenia has always strived to contribute positively to the international efforts to alleviate the plight of displaced people. It is our conviction that the phenomenon of the forced displacement should be addressed in a comprehensive man]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Statement by H.E. Mr. Andranik Hovhannisyan at the UN Human Rights Council]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/06/19/statement-by-h-e-mr-andranik-hovhannisyan-at-the-un-human-rights-council/13079]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Mr. President,
Armenia thanks the High Commissioner for the presentation of report.
The cruelty of wars and the immense suffering that they cause trample the human rights at their core. It is truly alarming, but certainly not unexpected that the High Commissioner focused the opening of his presentation on the human rights abuses in increasing number of conflict situations. Time and again the cla]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[&ldquo;Market Focus Armenia&rdquo; business forum was held in Geneva]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/05/22/&ldquo;market-focus-armenia&rdquo;-business-forum-was-held-in-geneva/12993]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[On May 22 the Switzerland-Armenia Chamber of Commerce and Geneva Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Services (CCIG) jointly organized the &ldquo;Market Focus Armenia&rdquo; business forum in Geneva. The event aimed at contributing to the enhancement of economic and business ties between Armenia and Switzerland and boosting investments.
Ambassador of Armenia to Switzerland H.E. Mr. Andranik Hovhann]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Interview of Ambassador Andranik Hovhannisyan to the S&uuml;dostschweiz newspaper]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/05/05/ambassador-andranik-hovhannisyan-attended-landsgemeinde-in-glarus/13045]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[On 5 May Ambassador Andranik Hovhannisyan attended Landsgemeinde in Glarus. It is one of the fascinating expressions of direct democracy conducted since 14th century, where all citizens can discuss and cast vote on legislative and administrative matters in the assmbly on town square. Ambassador Hovhannisyan shared his impressions with the&nbsp;local newspaper S&uuml;dostschweiz&nbsp;(in German) an]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[The Permanent Mission of Armenia in Geneva organized a cultural event with the participation of the Asian Ambassadors&rsquo; Wives Association]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/04/26/the-permanent-mission-of-armenia-in-geneva-organized-a-cultural-event-with-the-participation-of-the/13038]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[On 26 April the Permanent Mission of Armenia in Geneva hosted a group of members of the Asian Ambassadors&rsquo; Wives Association. The spouses of the Permanent Representatives accredited to the UN Office in Geneva and other International Organizations (UNOG) were introduced to the history, art and culture, architecture and traditions of Armenia. The Armenian music and poetry were also presented. ]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Armenia&rsquo;s participation to the 55th session of UN Human Rights Council]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/04/05/armenia&rsquo;s-participation-to-the-55th-session-of-un-human-rights-council/12795]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[The 55th session of the UN Human Rights Council took place from 26 February to 5 April 2024 in Geneva. This was the longest session in the history of the HRC.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia H.E. Mr. Ararat Mirzoyan participated at the High-Level Segment of the session. In his statement he stressed in particular that &ldquo;there is a continuous bellicose rhetoric and military escalati]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Statement  on the draft resolution &ldquo;Prevention of Genocide&rdquo;  delivered by H.E. Andranik Hovhannisyan, Permanent Representative of Armenia ` at the 55th Session of the UN Human Rights Council]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/04/03/statement-on-the-draft-resolution-&ldquo;prevention-of-genocide&rdquo;-delivered-by-h-e-andranik-hovhannisyan-p/12776]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Mr. President,
It is an honor to present draft resolution L.16 entitled &ldquo;Prevention of genocide&rdquo;, which enjoys wide co-sponsorship from all five regional groups.
The draft resolution is a manifestation of Armenia&rsquo;s continuing and resolute commitment to the international efforts for genocide prevention. It is a call to prevent deterioration of the human rights violations into su]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[Human Rights Council adopted the resolution on &ldquo;Prevention of Genocide&rdquo;]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/04/03/human-rights-council-adopted-the-resolution-on-&ldquo;prevention-of-genocide&rdquo;/12784]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[On 3 April United Nations Human Rights Council in its 55th&nbsp;session adopted by consensus the resolution on the &ldquo;Prevention of Genocide&rdquo; tabled by Armenia.
Based on the Convention on &ldquo;Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide&rdquo; this biennial resolution calls for the attention of the UN member states to the risks of this atrocity and the need to prevent it.
Taki]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 55th Session. Item 10 General Debate]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/04/02/hrc-55th-session-item-10-general-debate/12777]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[President,
Armenia appreciates the OHCHR&rsquo;s efforts in technical assistance and capacity building, conducted through cooperation and dialogue, in helping States to implement their human rights obligations and commitments. It is our conviction that the valuable work done by the OHCHR in this regard should not be limited and hindered when it comes to the conflict torn areas. Any such obstructi]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 55th Session: Agenda item 9 &ndash; General Debate]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/03/28/hrc-55th-session-agenda-item-9-&ndash;-general-debate/12760]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Mr. Hambardzum Minasyan, First Secretary
&nbsp;
President,
Armenia shares its grave concern with regard to what the UN CERD has characterized as an &ldquo;incitement to racial hatred and the propagation of racist stereotypes against persons of Armenian national or ethnic origin by public figures and government officials&rdquo; of Azerbaijan.
Azerbaijani public has been consistentl]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 55th Session: Item 8: Follow-up and implementation of the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/03/27/hrc-55th-session-item-8-follow-up-and-implementation-of-the-vienna-declaration-and-programme-of-act/12746]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Ms. Nelli Petrosyan, Human Rights Officer
&nbsp;
President,
Last year we marked the third decade of the adoption of the landmark Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action, a living document that states that &ldquo;democracy is based on the freely expressed will of the people to determine their own political, economic, social and cultural systems and their full participation in all]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 55th Session: Commemoration of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/03/27/hrc-55th-session-commemoration-of-the-international-day-for-the-elimination-of-racial-discrimination/12745]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Ms. Lilit Toutkhalian, Minister Extraordinary and Envoy Plenipotentiary
&nbsp;
President,
As we commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, we would like to remember all those who felt victim of anti-Armenian hatred and intolerance cultivated in Azerbaijan for decades. 
The first Armenian massacres of the modern era took place in Azerbaijan in 1]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 55th Session:  General debate under Agenda Item 6: Universal Periodic Review]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/03/26/hrc-55th-session-general-debate-under-agenda-item-6-universal-periodic-review/12747]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[President,
The UPR serves as a fundamental mechanism that advances the protection and promotion of human rights worldwide. The UPR is a catalyst for the improvements rather than just a review process. However, we must also acknowledge the challenges that persist. Human rights violations continue to occur in various part of the world, including in our region, affecting vulnerable and indigenous po]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[55th Session of the UPR Working Group:  Review of Azerbaijan]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/03/25/45nd-session-of-the-upr-working-group-review-of-azerbaijan/12758]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Ms. Lilit Toutkhalian, Minister Extraordinary and Envoy Plenipotentiary
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&amp;n]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 55th Session. Item 3 &ndash; ID with SR on the Rights of Minorities]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/03/21/HRC 55th Session. Item 3 &ndash; ID with SR on the Rights of Minorities/12728]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Ms. Lilit Toutkhalian, Minister Extraordinary and Envoy Plenipotentiary
&nbsp;
Mr. President,
Armenia congratulates Special Rapporteur for his first appearance at the Council and thanks for the report.
Likewise, we thank the OHCHR for the report on its activities. It contains a reference to the High Commissioner&rsquo;s statement made during the ethnic cleansing in Nagorno-Karabak]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 55rd Session: Item 5: General Debate]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/03/21/hrc-55rd-session-item-5-general-debate/12778]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[HRC 55rd Session: Item 5: General Debate
Delivered by Hrachuhi Katvalyan, Deputy Permanent Representative
President,
The Treaty Bodies and Special Procedures are indispensable instruments of the UN Human Rights system&rsquo;s early warning capacity. The fruitful cooperation established with the UN human rights treaty bodies and special procedures greatly contributes to further enhancement in pr]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 55th Session: Item 4. General debate]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/03/20/hrc-55th-session-item-4-general-debate/12723]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by H.E. Mr. Andranik Hovhannisyan, Permanent Representative
&nbsp;
President,
Two days ago, Azerbaijan organized a lighting of a huge ceremonial fire&nbsp;in the city of Stepanakert in Nagorno-Karabakh and officially called it a &ldquo;final cleaning&rdquo;.
A &ldquo;final cleaning&rdquo; in a region where according to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe almost the en]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 55th Session: Item 3: General Debate]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/03/15/hrc-55th-session-item-3-general-debate/12706]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by H.E. Mr. Andranik Hovhannisyan, Permanent Representative
&nbsp;
Mr. President,
At the high-level segment of current Human Rights Council session, the UN Secretary General stated that the path to peace begins with full respect for all human rights &ndash; civil, cultural, economic, political and social, backed by serious efforts at implementation and accountability.
Failure in resp]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 55rd Session: Item 3: Children and the armed conflict]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/03/13/hrc-55rd-session-item-3-children-and-the-armed-conflict/12715]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[&nbsp;
&nbsp;
President,
Armenia aligns with the statement delivered by Belgium on behalf of the Group of Friends on Children and Armed Conflict.
We extend our appreciation to the Special Representative Virginia Gamba for her continued engagement with the Council.
The rights to life, health, education, freedom of movement of the children of Nagorno-Karabakh were grossly violated as the result]]></description>
                     </item><item>
                        <title><![CDATA[HRC 55th Session: Item 3: interactive dialogue with the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence against Children]]></title>
                        <link><![CDATA[https://switzerland.mfa.am/en/news/2024/03/13/hrc-55th-session-item-3-interactive-dialogue-with-the-special-representative-of-the-secretary-gener/12710]]></link>
                        <description><![CDATA[Delivered by Shogher Sahakyan, Attach&eacute;
President,
Armenia welcomes the Special Representative.
We concur with the viewpoint that the need for stronger and prompt action to prevent violence against children remains urgent.
As a Pathfinding country of the Global Partnership to End Violence Against Children, Armenia remains fully committed to its responsibilities and commends the transitio]]></description>
                     </item></channel>
                </rss>