Path to reconciliation: Global leaders applaud Armenia-Azerbaijan peace breakthrough

The long-standing conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia is inching toward resolution, drawing praise from world leaders and international organizations. The recent announcement that both nations have finalized negotiations on a draft peace agreement has been hailed as a historic breakthrough, raising hopes for long-term stability in the South Caucasus.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed his strong support for the progress made, Caliber.Az reports.

His spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, emphasised the UN’s appreciation for the commitment shown by both sides:

“He is pleased with the progress made by the parties towards normalization of relations and strongly supports their efforts to resolve all outstanding issues in the interest of long-term peace in the region,” Dujarric stated.

Similar sentiments were echoed by Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Economic Relations Péter Szijjártó, who took to social media to highlight the significance of the development.

“Apart from the ongoing war in Ukraine, unfortunately, there are still many conflicts in the world. However, one of them seems to be moving towards resolution,” Szijjártó wrote. “According to information received today from my Azerbaijani colleague and friend Jeyhun Bayramov, a consensus has been reached on the text of a peace agreement capable of ending the conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Of course, this is not the end of the peace process, but it is a very important step in restoring peaceful and tranquil life to the people living in the South Caucasus region.”

The agreement also received strong backing from the United Kingdom. British Minister of State for Europe and North America Stephen Doughty described the conclusion of negotiations as a “historic moment” that could bring an end to decades of conflict.

“The desire for lasting peace is clear: I urge both sides to sign the agreement as soon as possible to cement it,” Doughty stated on social media.

Montenegro’s Foreign Ministry joined the chorus of support, welcoming the peace talks as a major step toward strengthening security in the region and beyond.

“Montenegro strongly welcomes the historic peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia. It is a great contribution to the stability of the region and European and global security,” the ministry said in a statement, emphasizing its commitment to fostering cooperation with both nations.

Italy also welcomed the completion of negotiations and the restoration of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan. In a statement on social media, the Italian Foreign Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the peace process.

“The Italian government will continue to support the normalization process aimed at strengthening peace and stability in the region,” the statement read.

The United Arab Emirates likewise voiced optimism about the agreement’s potential to usher in a new era of stability. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed hope that this “historic step will strengthen the bridges of communication, dialogue, and stability” for both Armenia and Azerbaijan, as well as for the broader Caucasus region.

UAE Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Lana Zaki Nusseibeh reinforced the country’s commitment to supporting the peace process. “The UAE supports all measures agreed upon by the two countries to strengthen security and peace at regional and international levels,” she said. Nusseibeh also noted the deep diplomatic ties the UAE shares with both Azerbaijan and Armenia and pledged continued efforts to bolster cooperation between them.

Croatia added its voice to the growing list of nations endorsing the peace talks, viewing them as a crucial step toward reconciliation.

“We express our gratitude to both sides for their commitment to dialogue and peaceful settlement, paving the way for enhanced cooperation, regional security, and long-term prosperity,” the Croatian Foreign Ministry stated. “Croatia, as a firm supporter of international law and diplomatic conflict resolution, remains committed to supporting all efforts contributing to the establishment of a just and lasting peace.”

With international backing and a finalized text now in place, all eyes are on Azerbaijan and Armenia to formally sign the peace agreement. If ratified, the deal could mark the dawn of a new chapter for the South Caucasus, ending years of tensions and fostering a future built on cooperation and stability.

By Tamilla Hasanova