In recent interactions at an informal CIS gathering in St. Petersburg, leaders from Armenia and Azerbaijan, Nikol Pashinyan and Ilham Aliyev, engaged in discussions that touched on the peace agenda between their nations. The conversations were described by the Armenian prime minister’s communications team, emphasizing that bilateral dialogue occurred on the sidelines of the event. The exchanges highlighted a shared interest in advancing a framework for peace and stability in the region, with both sides signaling a willingness to pursue constructive talks outside the formal negotiating rooms.
Observers noted that the talks were informal and conducted directly between the two leaders. The Armenian side stressed that the discussions focused on the peace roadmap and the practical steps necessary to reduce tensions, foster confidence, and create the conditions for durable agreement. While no binding conclusions were announced, the tone conveyed readiness to keep lines of communication open and to explore avenues for progress through continued bilateral engagement.
In related developments, the Armenian Parliament speaker indicated that momentum toward a peace agreement appeared to be building. The remarks suggested that there was a degree of cooperation from Baku in shaping a document that could finalize the decades-long dispute, though no timetable was provided for when any accord might be signed. The sense from Armenian authorities was one of cautious optimism about the possibility of a formal settlement taking shape in the near term.
Reports from late December described an updated version of the peace framework being provided to Armenia, signaling ongoing efforts to converge on a mutually acceptable text. The process has been characterized by multiple consultations and revisions as both sides seek to address core concerns while preserving regional stability and security guarantees for all communities involved.
Earlier in September, Azerbaijani authorities announced a local operation in Karabakh, stating that its objective was to suppress large-scale provocations, disarm armed units, and withdraw Armenian forces from the region. The following day, the parties, with Russian peacekeepers playing a mediating role, reached a ceasefire that has remained in place since. Negotiations have continued alongside the ceasefire, aiming to translate containment of immediate risks into lasting political settlements. This cadence of talks reflects a consistent pattern: tactical pauses in fighting paired with longer-term efforts to resolve the political dimensions of the dispute.
Throughout these developments, Pashinyan and other Armenian officials have commented on Baku’s responses to various proposals and public statements. The overall thread remains focused on achieving a durable peace that respects sovereignty and security for all parties, while addressing humanitarian and regional stability concerns. The dialogue underscores the delicate balance between advancing negotiations and managing on-the-ground realities that shape everyday life for people in both countries.