Türkiye seeks positive outcomes in Azerbaijan-Armenia peace talks

Following a meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) chaired by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan at the presidential complex in Ankara, a comprehensive statement was issued addressing key national and regional security concerns.

The NSC reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to Syria's territorial integrity and unity, Caliber.Az reports, citing Turkish media.

"Türkiye has always strongly supported the defence of Syria's territorial integrity and unity and is ready to make all necessary contributions in this process," the statement read. It emphasized that no concessions would be made to terrorist organizations exploiting instability, pledging to eliminate all threats to Türkiye’s national security and its people.

The Council also discussed Türkiye's decisive operations against various terrorist groups, including PKK/KCK-PYD/YPG, FETÖ, and DAISH, highlighting their successes in protecting national unity and sovereignty.

The declaration underscored the importance of adhering to international law and UN Security Council resolutions to halt Israel’s continued aggression and ensure justice for Palestinians. Türkiye maintained its stance on a just and lasting solution to the Palestinian issue.

The Council highlighted the necessity for measures to safeguard civilians amid ongoing Syrian instability. It reiterated that "the regime in Syria must reconcile with its own people and the legitimate opposition," while Türkiye pledged to continue neutralizing terrorist groups exploiting the volatile situation.

The NSC also reviewed the ongoing war in Ukraine, stressing the importance of de-escalation, achieving an immediate ceasefire, and working toward a fair and enduring peace.

Türkiye expressed hope for positive developments in Azerbaijani-Armenian negotiations, urging a peace treaty that ensures regional stability and aligns with the interests of all parties involved.

Earlier, Turkish Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler addressed the Parliamentary Planning and Budget Commission, underscoring the importance of a peace agreement in ensuring long-term stability in the South Caucasus. "A comprehensive peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia is critical to lasting stability in the Caucasus region," Güler remarked.

Şamil Ayrım, head of the Türkiye-Azerbaijan Parliamentary Friendship Group, highlighted constitutional reforms in Armenia and the cessation of the OSCE Minsk Group’s activities as pivotal to achieving enduring peace. During a meeting in Ankara with a delegation from Azerbaijan’s Milli Majlis, Ayrım emphasized the significance of the peace process for the broader region.

Reflecting on Türkiye’s unwavering support for Azerbaijan during the 44-day war, Ayrım affirmed, "This is how it was, how it is, and how it will always be." He praised the achievements of Azerbaijan, including its regained independence and the liberation of Khojaly, and voiced confidence in the imminent realization of the Zangezur Corridor, saying, "I am confident it will soon happen too!"

The developments underscore Türkiye's active role and vested interest in fostering a peaceful and stable South Caucasus.

By Tamilla Hasanova