Azerbaijani MFA official highlights Syrian embassy plans, Trump Route connectivity project

Azerbaijan anticipates that, in a bid to further deepen bilateral relations, Syria will establish an embassy in Baku, said Aykhan Hajizada, Spokesperson for Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry.  

Hajizada emphasized the deep historical and cultural connections shared by Azerbaijan and Syria as he was interviewed by Report.

The spokesperson recalled the difficulties in bilateral relations under Bashar al-Assad’s regime. “Due to a biased attitude toward Azerbaijan, the operations of our embassy were suspended for 12 years. During that period, Syria took positions against Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity in several international organizations,” he noted.

The ministry official added that following the fall of Assad’s regime on December 8, 2024, relations entered a new phase, opening significant opportunities for cooperation. “From the very beginning, Azerbaijan has consistently highlighted the importance of restoring peace and stability in Syria,” Hajizada said, further expressing hope that Syria will establish an embassy in Baku to enhance diplomatic engagement.

TRIPP and regional connectivity

Hajizada also addressed ongoing negotiations between the United States and Armenia concerning the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP), noting that the timeline for the start of construction remains uncertain.

“Azerbaijan, as the initiator of the peace process, is committed to lasting peace and stability in the region,” Hajizada said. “Following the historic agreements reached at the Washington Summit, both official meetings and informal contacts have aimed to advance our peace agenda and accelerate the implementation of those agreements. In addition, it is clear that establishing lasting peace in the region requires fulfillment of certain conditions. Azerbaijan's key requirement for signing a peace agreement is the amendment of Armenia's Constitution to eliminate territorial claims against Azerbaijan.”

He highlighted the strategic importance of the TRIPP corridor, which will ensure unobstructed passage through the Zangazur corridor and strengthen regional connectivity. “The Joint Declaration emphasized the necessity of ensuring seamless connectivity between mainland Azerbaijan and its Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. Talks between the US and Armenia are underway regarding the implementation of the relevant transport infrastructure project by the US, taking security measures, and ensuring unobstructed passage. However, the exact start date for construction is still unknown. Given that this route will link two regions of Azerbaijan, our country's principled position has been clearly communicated to both the US and Armenia. We hope that concrete steps will be taken in the short term,” Hajizada noted.

By Vafa Guliyeva