Thomas Bach responds to Gagik Tsarukyan’s letter on release of Armenians unlawfully held in Baku prisons

International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach responded to the letter of Armenian National Olympic Committee President Gagik Tsarukyan urging him to utilize all his political and diplomatic potential for the release of Armenians held captive in Baku prisons, in which he emphasized the political neutrality of the IOC.

He noted that the IOC advocates for peace, and its thoughts and feelings remain with the innocent victims and people affected by the many conflicts and wars around the world.

We remain hopeful that a peaceful solution can be found, as evidenced by the unveiling of the Truce Mural in the Olympic Village and our continued appeals to all governments to give peace a chance, he said.

The IOC called on all National Olympic Committees and their respective governing bodies, team leaders, and athletes to contribute to peace by promoting understanding and respect on and off the playing field, in accordance with Olympic values and the fundamental principles of Olympism.