In the tumultuous aftermath of Azerbaijan’s lightning victory in the recent conflict over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh territory, the South Caucasus region finds itself at a critical crossroads. Azerbaijan Issues Warning, as tensions simmer between Armenia and Azerbaijan, both countries grapple with the daunting task of stabilizing the region and charting a course towards a comprehensive peace agreement. Against this backdrop, Elin Suleymanov, Azerbaijan’s ambassador to the U.K. and former representative in the U.S., has issued a stern warning that regional stability hinges on a pragmatic and peaceful resolution.
Turbulence in Yerevan
Armenia’s political landscape has been marred by internal turmoil as Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan clings to power amid widespread protests triggered by Baku’s swift victory. These protests, fueled by discontent over Pashinyan’s perceived failure to support Nagorno-Karabakh, raise concerns about ethnic cleansing in the disputed region. However, Baku dismisses these fears as unfounded, emphasizing its commitment to a peaceful resolution.
The Nagorno-Karabakh Conundrum
The Nagorno-Karabakh region, internationally recognized as Azerbaijani territory, has a predominantly ethnic Armenian population. Over the years, it has been the epicenter of three conflicts since Armenia and Azerbaijan gained independence from the Soviet Union in the 1990s. The recent Azerbaijani victory appears to signal the end of separatist Armenian control in the enclave.
Azerbaijan and Armenia Conflict: The Power Dynamics
Armenia’s military, coupled with its strategic disadvantages in Nagorno-Karabakh, and its strained relations with historic ally Russia, left Pashinyan’s government in a precarious position. Azerbaijan’s overwhelming military advantage seemed to make its victory inevitable, reflecting a shift in the balance of power in the region.
The Peace Talks
Peace talks between Azerbaijan and representatives of the ethnic Armenian self-declared Republic of Artsakh have begun, facilitated by Russian peacekeepers. The agreement stipulates that Artsakh authorities must disarm local units, and Armenian military forces must leave the enclave. Azerbaijani officials are now focused on reintegration. These talks offer a glimmer of hope for the region.
Elin Süleymanov: A New Approach Needed
Elin süleymanov calls on Armenia to adopt a new approach by fostering diplomatic relations with its neighbors, including Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkey. He emphasizes the importance of bilateral normalization and regional cooperation, urging Armenia to minimize external influences.
Azerbaijan and Armenia war: Western Concerns and Double Standards
Suleymanov dismisses Western concerns about Azerbaijani conduct and the blockage of the Lachin Corridor, which links Armenia to Nagorno-Karabakh. He argues that Western governments apply double standards when it comes to Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity, suggesting that bias may play a role in their perceptions.
In conclusion, the South Caucasus region stands at a pivotal juncture where diplomacy and cooperation are essential for lasting peace. The successful conclusion of talks between Azerbaijan and Armenia could open the door to broader peace agreements, ending decades of conflict and fostering stability in the region.
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