Azerbaijan seeks a peace agreement with Armenia to end their territorial dispute, insisting Armenia must amend its constitution to remove claims on Nagorno-Karabakh. While diplomatic discussions took place in Argentina, the Armenian Embassy expressed disappointment over Azerbaijan’s preconditions. Despite tensions, trade relations between Azerbaijan and Argentina are also a focus.
Azerbaijan has signaled its readiness to reach a peace agreement with Armenia to resolve their long-standing conflict, as stated by Elchin Amirbayov, a senior official during his recent visit to Argentina. He indicated that both countries are nearing the completion of a historic treaty aimed at ending territorial disputes, particularly regarding Nagorno-Karabakh, which has been a source of tension since the Soviet Union’s dissolution.
During his visit, Amirbayov conversed with key Argentine officials, including Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein and Cabinet Chief Guillermo Francos, as well as representatives from civil society groups. This diplomatic engagement comes after the nations experienced heightened conflict, most notably in September 2023 when Azerbaijan took control of Nagorno-Karabakh, leading to a mass exodus of Armenians from the region.
Both countries announced earlier this month that they have tentatively agreed on a peace treaty, which highlights Azerbaijan’s demand for Armenia to amend its constitution to revoke any claims to Nagorno-Karabakh. Amirbayov emphasized that such constitutional reform is essential for achieving a “sustainable and irreversible” peace, asserting the need to eliminate any legal basis for future territorial claims.
Amirbayov remarked, “Now the ball is in Armenia’s court,” guiding the peace process forward. In response, the Armenian Embassy in Argentina expressed its disappointment with Azerbaijan’s approach, indicating that it is regrettable that Azerbaijan appears to be imposing preconditions rather than progressing toward lasting peace. Despite this, the embassy maintains hope for an agreement that governs relations between the two nations.
In addition to constitutional changes in Armenia, Amirbayov mentioned the necessity of eliminating third-party mediation in the resolution process, including the withdrawal of forces under the Minsk Process and European armed forces from the disputed border area. He stated that the future relationship between Armenia and Azerbaijan should be self-determined without external interference.
Amirbayov’s discussions in Argentina also included trade relations, where he expressed aspirations to enhance economic ties, particularly in agriculture, without letting the conflict hinder bilateral relations. He recognized Argentina’s strong connection to Armenia but also advocated for a balanced relationship with Azerbaijan, underscoring the importance of cooperation between the nations.
This article outlines Azerbaijan’s readiness to finalize a peace treaty with Armenia, emphasizing the need for constitutional reform in Armenia to remove claims on Nagorno-Karabakh as critical for lasting peace. While Azerbaijan expresses optimism, the Armenian Embassy’s disappointment reflects ongoing challenges in negotiations. Furthermore, the potential for strengthened economic ties between Azerbaijan and Argentina suggests that diplomacy might transcend regional conflicts.
Original Source: www.batimes.com.ar
