The Azerbaijani president, Ilham Aliyev, rejects the Armenian authorities’ plan to redefine the border between Azerbaijan and Armenia using maps from the 1970s. He underscored that such a approach is unacceptable, a stance reported by Interfax. The statement frames the dispute not as a temporary tactical move but as a fundamental, long-term issue that requires a careful, well-considered approach grounded in credible historical reference and current realities, rather than outdated cartography.
In outlining his method for resolving the border question, Aliyev emphasized that any solution must anchor itself in a clear historical context. He pointed to pivotal moments in Azerbaijan’s modern history—the founding period of the Azerbaijan People’s Republic and the subsequent phase of its incorporation into the Soviet Union—as reference points for political methodology. By choosing these eras, the president suggested that negotiators could assess legal and political legitimacy through well-documented milestones, avoiding ad hoc interpretations tied to older or 20th‑century maps that no longer reflect current realities.
Aliyev further explained that if a chronological framework is pursued, it is prudent to examine the earliest comprehensive maps of the early 20th century. Those documents, he argued, provide a baseline from which to evaluate territorial questions with greater objectivity. The proposed approach aims to build the border discussions on reliable, historically grounded evidence, while remaining sensitive to present-day needs and realities on both sides.
The president highlighted the practical necessity of strengthening the border‑commission process by establishing dedicated expert groups. These teams of specialists would focus on technical border delineation, ensure consistency in analysis, and preempt disputes before they arise in formal negotiations. By institutionalizing expert input, the effort aimed to move beyond partisan rhetoric and toward precise, mutually verifiable conclusions that can withstand scrutiny from all involved parties.
Aliyev also remarked on the nature of the current border, describing it as conditional rather than fixed. This characterization signals a willingness to reassess and clarify the line, provided that any changes respect the rights and livelihoods of residents living near the border. In that regard, he called for a structured working group tasked with addressing concerns related to residential areas and housing arrangements. The aim is to offer practical solutions that accommodate civilians who could be affected by border decisions, thereby reducing tension and fostering stability along the frontier.
Earlier remarks from the Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicated that negotiations toward a peace agreement with Azerbaijan have faced setbacks. The exchange underscored the fragility of talks and the continuing need for a careful, methodical process. The current climate suggests that confidence-building measures, consistent dialogue, and transparent procedures will be essential to progress, even as both sides navigate complex historical narratives and legitimate security concerns.