Can Azerbaijan and Armenia Achieve Lasting Peace?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Azerbaijan and Armenia sign a historic peace deal.
- US President Donald Trump hosted the leaders in Washington.
- The agreement aims to end decades of conflict.
- New economic opportunities are anticipated for the South Caucasus.
- Both leaders express optimism for a peaceful future.
Washington, Aug 9 (NationPress) Azerbaijan and Armenia have embarked on a groundbreaking journey towards peace by signing a joint declaration after enduring decades of intense conflict and substantial loss of life. This significant event took place as US President Donald Trump welcomed both leaders of the South Caucasus in Washington, as confirmed by the White House.
“For over 35 years, the Armenian and Azerbaijani people have faced a bitter struggle that led to immense suffering for both nations… Many have attempted to broker peace, yet their efforts fell short. With this Accord, we have finally achieved a milestone in peace,” stated Trump on Friday.
The White House reported that Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan also entered into bilateral economic agreements with the US, unlocking vast potential for the South Caucasus in trade, transit, energy, infrastructure, and technology, thereby creating new opportunities for American citizens and businesses.
“This day will be etched in the memories of the Azerbaijani people with pride and appreciation for President Trump… In just a few months, he has successfully concluded conflicts across Asia, Africa, and now the South Caucasus — a feat we could not accomplish for over 30 years… We will turn the page on confrontation, bloodshed, and hostility, ushering in a bright and secure future for our children,” remarked President Aliyev.
Prime Minister Pashinyan expressed on his social media that the peace agreement would lead to peace, prosperity, and development in the South Caucasus.
“The declaration signed by myself, the President of Azerbaijan, and President Trump, who witnessed this historic moment, instills confidence that we are commencing a new era of peace, prosperity, security, and economic collaboration in the South Caucasus,” Pashinyan tweeted.
“The initiation of this peace treaty will pave the way to end decades of conflict while the establishment of transport communications in the region, including the TRIPP - Trump Road for Peace & Prosperity - will unlock strategic economic opportunities that promise long-term benefits,” he added.
Earlier in July, Aliyev and Pashinyan engaged in discussions in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Both leaders agreed to enhance efforts toward normalizing relations between their nations, according to the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry.
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