Armenian FM spokesperson deems Baku-Yerevan talks“successful”

Yerevan views the meeting between Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in Abu Dhabi positively and believes it provides a strong foundation for advancing the peace process, Armenian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Ani Badalyan said. 

According to her, the public will be informed if an agreement on a peace treaty with Azerbaijan is reached, Caliber.Az reports, citing Armenian media. 

Badalyan stated that the Armenian public is already well-acquainted with the government’s broader strategy for implementing its peace agenda. She noted that all the positions expressed during the July 10 meeting in Abu Dhabi align with Armenia’s long-standing approach, particularly regarding the unblocking of regional transport routes, which the country has detailed in its "Crossroads of Peace" initiative.

The meeting, held in the United Arab Emirates, brought together Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan for direct bilateral discussions — marking another step in efforts to normalise relations between the two countries.

According to a statement issued by the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry, the leaders addressed a wide range of issues under the broader inter-state normalisation agenda. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to resolving outstanding matters through direct dialogue, agreeing that bilateral negotiations are the most effective means for progress.

One of the central topics of discussion was the border delimitation process. The two sides acknowledged advancements in this area and instructed their respective state commissions to continue technical-level engagement. Confidence-building measures were also discussed as both parties underscored the importance of fostering mutual trust to ensure lasting regional stability.

The July 10 talks in Abu Dhabi come at a time of renewed momentum in the peace process. Following Azerbaijan’s full restoration of sovereignty over Karabakh in 2023, Baku and Yerevan have made notable strides — including the finalisation of a draft peace treaty in March 2025.

The choice of Abu Dhabi as the meeting venue, initiated by Azerbaijan, highlights a move toward neutral-ground bilateral diplomacy, away from traditional third-party mediation. Core issues on the table remain the border delimitation process and the proposed Zangezur Corridor — a vital route linking mainland Azerbaijan with its Nakhchivan exclave.

While key challenges persist, including Armenia’s unmodified constitution and continued references to the defunct OSCE Minsk Group, the constructive tone of the Abu Dhabi discussions suggests the two sides are drawing closer to a long-awaited final agreement.

By Sabina Mammadli