In a significant step towards lasting peace in the South Caucasus, a group of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) has issued a communiqué applauding the successful conclusion of negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan on the full text of a draft Agreement on Peace and Establishment of Interstate Relations. The statement, posted on the European Parliament’s official website on March 18, 2025, reflects a hopeful outlook for the resolution of the decades-long conflict.
Armenia’s Commitment to Peace Welcomed
The MEPs specifically commended the Armenian government for its constructive approach. “The government of Armenia deserves credit for this significant development, following its announcement that it accepts Azerbaijan’s proposals on the last two unresolved articles and its declaration of readiness to sign the agreement as soon as possible,” the statement reads. This acknowledgment underscores the positive role Armenia has played in advancing the peace process.
A Historic Opportunity for Azerbaijan
The statement also includes a strong call to action for the Azerbaijani leadership. “We trust that the Azerbaijani leadership will seize this historic occasion to end decades of conflict and build a prosperous South Caucasus by signing and implementing the Peace Agreement as concluded in the negotiations.” The MEPs emphasize the potential for a new era of stability and prosperity in the region if Azerbaijan embraces this opportunity for a definitive resolution.
Focus on Border Delimitation and Regional Connectivity
Beyond the peace agreement itself, the MEPs highlighted the importance of other crucial steps. “We also encourage further progress in the border delimitation process, and on opening the regional communications on the basis of sovereignty and jurisdiction of either country, reciprocity and equality, as a key measure to unblock regional development, enhance connectivity and foster sustainable peace and prosperity, as well as facilitate reconciliation among communities based on increased people-to-people contacts.” This demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of the conflict resolution process, encompassing not only a peace treaty but also practical measures for regional cooperation.
Türkiye’s Role in Supporting Regional Stability
The statement further calls upon Türkiye to play a supportive role in the ongoing positive developments. “In the same spirit, we also trust that the government of Türkiye will seize the opportunity to support the current positive developments in the region and reciprocate Armenia’s readiness to open the Armenian-Turkish border for the benefit of its own citizens and the entire South Caucasus.” This inclusion acknowledges the interconnectedness of the regional dynamics and the potential for normalized relations between Armenia and Türkiye to contribute significantly to overall stability.
A Joint Call for a Peaceful Future
The joint statement was issued by prominent MEPs involved in foreign affairs and relations with the South Caucasus, including:
- MEP David McALLISTER, Chair of the Committee on Foreign Affairs
- MEP Sergey Lagodinsky, Chair of the Delegation to the Euronest Parliamentary Assembly
- MEP Nils Ušakovs, Chair of the Delegation for relations with the South Caucasus
- MEP Miriam Lexmann, European Parliament’s Standing Rapporteur on Armenia
- MEP Dan Barna, European Parliament’s Standing Rapporteur on Azerbaijan
Their collective voice underscores the European Parliament’s strong interest in and support for a peaceful resolution to the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The statement serves as both a commendation for progress made and an encouragement for all parties involved to seize this crucial moment and work towards a stable and prosperous South Caucasus region.\