Pashinyan: Armenia committed to peace agreement with Azerbaijan

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has reiterated his government’s commitment to achieving a long-term peace agreement with Azerbaijan, stating that war is not on the horizon.

"There will be peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan, not war. And, in fact, we are working on a long-term solution to this issue and we should continue to work. And I believe that the Armenian people will assist us in this issue, I am sure of it," Pashinyan said during a press conference on July 16, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

The Prime Minister also stated that discussions between the two sides include the possibility of a preliminary signing of the peace agreement. 

"Yes, that idea is also on the table. The text of the draft agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan on peace and the establishment of interstate relations has been agreed upon, and negotiations on the text have been completed.The preliminary signing is one of the options under discussion, however it may be realistic under certain conditions and less so under others," the prime minister stated.

He also emphasised that the Armenian government remains vigilant in seizing every opportunity to advance the peace process, while ensuring the protection of Armenia’s national interests.

“At the same time, we must understand that the world is dynamic. We need to remain flexible and attentive in order not to overlook any opportunities,” Pashinyan concluded.

On July 10, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and met in Abu Dhabi for bilateral talks, a significant step as it occurred without mediators like Russia, reflecting a shift in regional dynamics. The talks saw both leaders agree to continue direct negotiations, emphasising bilateral dialogue as the most effective path to normalisation. 

Despite the constructive atmosphere, no breakthrough was achieved on signing the peace treaty, and differences persist, particularly regarding the opening of Zangezur corridor.

By Sabina Mammadli