Cernobbio, 7 September 2024 (TDI): Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has said that substantial progress in peace negotiations with Armenia has been achieved.
He revealed that nearly 80% of the text of a proposed peace treaty between the two countries has been agreed upon.
Speaking at an international forum in Cernobbio, Italy, President Aliyev expressed optimism over the recent developments, stating, “We are on the path to peace.
Recent talks with Armenia have been productive, and almost 80% of the peace treaty text is now settled.”
He underscored the positive momentum in dialogue between the two South Caucasus neighbours.
Aliyev highlighted that both countries have also initiated the process of border delimitation, marking a significant step towards normalizing relations.
“While we have agreed upon only a 13-kilometer section of the border, which stretches over 1,000 kilometers, it is a crucial step in the right direction,” he noted.
The Azerbaijani leader expressed hope that the ongoing peace talks would culminate in a comprehensive peace agreement, which he said would not only be vital for the South Caucasus but also hold significance for global stability.
Tensions Between Azerbaijan and Armenia
Tensions between Baku and Yerevan have persisted since 1991, when Armenian forces occupied Karabakh, a territory internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan, along with seven adjacent regions.
Most of the territory was recaptured by Azerbaijan in a 44-day conflict in 2020, which ended with a Russian-brokered ceasefire, paving the way for normalization efforts and border demarcation.
In September last year, Azerbaijan gained full control over Karabakh after a military operation led to the surrender of separatist forces.
The ongoing negotiations are seen as a critical step towards a lasting peace treaty and regional stability.
The peace process has attracted significant international attention, with many viewing it as a potential model for resolving other protracted conflicts around the world.
