Azerbaijani President, US State Secretary discuss peace, border delimitation, COP29

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan held a telephone conversation today, focusing on key issues including the pursuit of lasting peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan, border delimitation, and the upcoming COP29 conference.

In the call, Secretary Blinken emphasized the United States' commitment to achieving enduring peace in the South Caucasus. He lauded the recent progress in border delimitation efforts, notably the signing of the Regulation on the Joint Activity of State Border Delimitation Commissions on August 30, 2024, as a significant step forward, Caliber.Az reports, citing Azertag.

President Aliyev underscored the transformative impact of Azerbaijan's efforts in the region, asserting that the new realities and status quo have emerged based on justice and international law. He highlighted Azerbaijan's initiative in proposing a peace treaty with Armenia and reiterated that Armenia must abandon its territorial claims, as outlined in its Constitution other legislative acts, to proceed with signing the peace treaty.

The Azerbaijani leader also called for the dissolution of the OSCE Minsk Group and related institutions, describing them as outdated relics. He affirmed the positive outcomes of the bilateral border delimitation process, which will proceed in accordance with the recently signed Regulation.

Additionally, the conversation touched on the forthcoming COP29 climate summit, scheduled to be held in Azerbaijan. Secretary Blinken expressed strong US support for Azerbaijan's successful hosting of the event and noted the close cooperation between COP teams and delegations from both countries. President Aliyev expressed optimism for reaching a consensus, particularly among developed nations, on crucial climate financing decisions during the summit.

The discussion concluded with a review of bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and the United States, reflecting on their collaborative efforts and mutual interests.