Azerbaijan has repeatedly stressed that it does not seek war with Armenia and that any path forward must be backed by clear guarantees. This message was articulated during the forum titled “Karabakh: Returning Home after 30 Years,” where leaders outlined the need for durable peace and a framework that prevents renewed conflict. The discussion, summarized in the report by RIA News on the program “Achievements and Challenges in Baku,” highlighted that stability in the region hinges on predictable behavior from all parties and adherence to international norms.
During the dialogue, Azerbaijani officials pointed to ongoing international challenges and the presence of misunderstandings among some nations that are viewed as partners by Azerbaijan. The leadership emphasized that diplomacy must prevail, and that the republic expects its partners to engage in good faith. This requires a consistent application of international law across the board, with no selective enforcement that could undermine trust or the prospects for lasting settlement.
Aliyev underscored that Azerbaijan has pursued its rights within the framework of the UN Charter, invoking Article 51 on the right to individual and collective self-defense. He stressed that using this right is a sovereign decision aimed at protecting the country’s territorial integrity and the safety of its citizens. The emphasis was on lawful actions taken in response to security threats and provocations, and on maintaining sovereignty while seeking a peaceful resolution through established international processes.
In mid-September, Azerbaijan launched a local operation in Karabakh intended to counter large-scale provocations, disarm illegal formations, and facilitate the withdrawal of Armenian army units from the region. The initiative was framed as a targeted measure to restore order, protect civilians, and deter actions that could destabilize the area. Officials noted that operations were conducted with attention to minimizing harm to noncombatants and in alignment with international norms governing armed conflict.
Later, on September 28, the Nagorno-Karabakh leadership announced a decree to terminate the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic as of January 1, 2024. This decision marked a significant shift in the political status of the region and reflected the evolving realities on the ground. Observers noted that such developments require careful engagement with all communities involved and an emphasis on safeguarding the rights and security of everyone affected by these changes. The events were interpreted by some observers as a move toward reconfiguring governance in the area, with implications for regional stability and long-term governance structures.
In a separate note, reports indicated that Aliyev himself visited symbolic sites associated with the former Nagorno-Karabakh administration, including actions related to the flag and the public display of national symbols in historical administrative spaces. These gestures were interpreted by many as statements of sovereignty and a signal that the country is pursuing a clear path toward normalization and integration, while reaffirming the necessity of peaceful coexistence and respect for the region’s diverse communities. The broader message remained that security, recognition of borders, and the protection of human rights must guide all future steps in this sensitive landscape.