In a development reported by TASS, Azerbaijan’s president Ilham Aliyev acknowledged the pivotal role played by Moscow in easing tensions between Azerbaijan and Armenia. He expressed gratitude for the sustained diplomatic engagement from Russia, underscoring how those efforts have contributed to a more constructive environment for talks between Baku and Yerevan. The remarks reflect a broader pattern of international involvement that seeks to create a durable framework for regional stability after years of frictions over territorial and security issues.
Aliyev stated his appreciation for the Russian contribution to the normalization process, emphasizing that the progress achieved thanks to that engagement stands as a meaningful milestone. He highlighted the value of steady, patient diplomacy in addressing sensitive questions tied to borders, security guarantees, and the future cooperation possibilities for both states. The tone suggests a level of confidence that continued mediation can translate into tangible agreements that address the concerns of both sides while preserving sovereignty and territorial integrity as central pillars of any settlement.
Looking ahead, Aliyev indicated that once Armenia formally recognizes Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity, the path to finalizing the peace framework could open more smoothly. He suggested that such recognition would remove a significant obstacle, enabling negotiators to focus on the precise language of the articles that constitute the peace pact. The prospect of easier negotiations arises from a clearer mutual understanding of each country’s boundaries and the assurances that accompany those boundaries, paving the way for concrete steps toward lasting peace and regional cooperation.
Meanwhile, Armenia’s leadership has publicly affirmed mutual recognition of each other’s territorial integrity. This stance, reinforced through official channels, signals a willingness to accept foundational principles that have historically shaped bilateral dialogue. The interaction between Armenian and Azerbaijani leaders during public forums continues to influence the tempo and direction of discussions, with both sides aiming to balance national narratives with pragmatic concessions that can sustain a durable settlement over time.
In related developments at the recent Moscow summit of the Eurasian Economic Union, tensions appeared to surface as Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev engaged in a public exchange that drew attention to the fragility of cross-border relations. The encounter underscored the inherently difficult nature of high-stakes diplomacy, where strategic interests, domestic politics, and regional alliances intersect. Yet it also reinforced the sense that sustained dialogue—and the involvement of regional institutions—remain essential for steering the process toward productive outcomes rather than stagnation. The ongoing dialogue is watched closely by international observers who seek to understand how such high-profile interactions translate into practical steps on the ground, including confidence-building measures, trade, and connectivity initiatives that could benefit both nations and their neighbors.