Pro-government MP: Mount Ararat on passport stamps sends 'dangerous message' to Armenia's neighbors

Pro-government MP Artur Hovhannisyan says Armenia’s state symbols should avoid “emotional imagery”, explaining the decision to remove Mount Ararat from Armenia's passport entry and exit stamps starting November 1,

Speaking to reporters on Monday, Hovhannisyan, secretary of the ruling Civil Contract faction, stressed that official symbolism should be based strictly on statehood and prevent misinterpretations.

“We rely on the Alma-Ata Declaration in relations with our neighbors, so every step, whether a stamp or a statement, should not send dangerous messages to Armenia's neighbors,” he said.

Asked whether Mount Ararat could also be removed from Armenia’s coat of arms, Hovhannisyan replied: “No such discussions are underway.”

Addressing Armenia-Turkey relations, the MP highlighted efforts to implement agreements on third-country citizens’ movement and diplomatic travel. He stated the normalization processes with Turkey and Azerbaijan remain separate. “We hope to achieve results with both countries as soon as possible,” he added.