Stability in Caucasus hinges on Baku-Yerevan peace deal Says Türkiye’s defence chief

A comprehensive peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia is critical to ensuring lasting stability and calm in the Caucasus region, Türkiye's National Defence Minister Yaşar Güler said.

He made the remarks during discussions on the 2025 budget for the Ministry of Defence at the Parliamentary Planning and Budget Commission, Caliber.Az reports citing local media.

Güler underscored the importance of formalizing a large-scale peace treaty between Baku and Yerevan, highlighting its potential to foster stability in a geopolitically sensitive region.

The minister also provided updates on Türkiye’s ongoing counter-terrorism efforts. He reported that since the start of 2024, operations conducted by the Turkish Armed Forces have neutralized 2,654 militants affiliated with banned organizations.

“Short-term strikes with a clearly defined list of targets have been replaced by large-scale operations without predetermined deadlines. This strategic shift has dealt a significant blow to terrorist organizations, especially the PKK,” Güler explained, reiterating Türkiye’s unwavering commitment to eradicating the terrorism threat entirely.

Güler also stressed the importance of regional cooperation in combating terrorism, noting that Türkiye is actively taking concrete measures in collaboration with neighboring countries. “We are working in accordance with agreements made with the Iraqi government to strengthen our efforts against terrorism,” he said.

Addressing the situation in Cyprus, Güler stated that Ankara is closely monitoring actions by the Greek Cypriot administration, which he described as threatening to the island’s stability.

Furthermore, he expressed concern about the increasing activity of foreign powers in southern Cyprus under the guise of humanitarian missions. “Türkiye remains vigilant about these developments,” he noted.

By Tamilla Hasanova