Top official: Azerbaijan, Armenia nearing signing of pivotal peace agreement

Efforts to resolve the territorial dispute and normalize relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia are making significant headway, with both sides nearing the signing of a pivotal peace agreement, said Elchin Amirbayov, special representative of the Azerbaijani president for special assignments.

Amirabayov's remarks were highlighted in a podcast by Glen Howard, former president of the Jamestown Foundation, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

Peace prospects continue to improve through a series of important confidence-building measures between the two countries, greatly enhancing the chances for peace in the South Caucasus.  

During the podcast, it was noted that Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev announced substantial progress in the negotiations with Armenia. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan also expressed his commitment to finalizing an agreement with Azerbaijan by the end of the year.

The podcast also pointed to the international dimensions of the discussions, mentioning that US President-elect Donald Trump held a phone conversation with President Aliyev earlier this week. The discussion underscored Azerbaijan’s strategic importance in the Caspian region and its significance to the incoming US administration.

Amirbayov shared insights into the current phase of Azerbaijani-Armenian negotiations and Azerbaijan's roadmap for normalizing ties with Armenia. The dialogue reflects the increasing momentum toward achieving regional peace and stability.

This crucial phase represents a turning point for the South Caucasus, as both nations work toward closing a chapter of conflict and opening a new era of cooperation.

By Khagan Isayev