Azerbaijani FM outlines key conditions for signing peace treaty with Armenia

Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov has said that Azerbaijan has numerous objectives ahead, with safeguarding the nation's sovereignty being a paramount concern.

“Azerbaijan is actively pursuing a policy that serves its national interests through both bilateral and multilateral platforms,” he told reporters, Caliber.Az reports citing the local media.

Bayramov also discussed the ongoing process of normalising relations with Armenia.

"The public is regularly briefed on the priorities of the peace agenda with Armenia. The international community recognises the elimination of decades-long occupation. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev openly proposed a peace agenda for Armenia in January 2021, leading to a reduction in outstanding issues related to the peace treaty discussion. However, the Armenian Constitution still includes territorial claims against Azerbaijan, which must be addressed for full peace to be achieved," the minister added.

Azerbaijan and Armenia have a long-standing history of conflict. The dispute escalated into a full-scale war in the late 1980s and early 1990s, resulting in Armenia gaining control over Karabakh region and several surrounding districts. This conflict led to significant displacement, casualties, and strained relations between the two countries.

Despite several ceasefire agreements and international mediation efforts, tensions remained high for decades. Azerbaijan consistently sought the return of its occupied territories and the recognition of its territorial integrity.

The situation escalated into renewed hostilities in September 2020, resulting in a six-week war that ended with a ceasefire agreement. Azerbaijan achieved significant military gains during this conflict, reclaiming control over many territories previously held by Armenian forces.

The aftermath of the 2020 war has seen efforts to normalise relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia, including discussions on a peace treaty and the return of prisoners of war.