Quick Read
- Deputy FM Vahan Kostanyan reaffirmed sovereignty as the core of Armenia’s security policy at the Antalya forum.
- Experts warn that current U.S.-backed peace frameworks neglect critical human rights issues, including POW releases.
- The ongoing presence of Azerbaijani troops on sovereign Armenian territory remains a primary obstacle to a durable peace.
At the Antalya Diplomatic Forum, Deputy Foreign Minister of Armenia Vahan Kostanyan positioned state sovereignty as the non-negotiable foundation for any durable peace in the South Caucasus. As regional powers and international mediators converge on the so-called Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP), the discourse in Yerevan has shifted from mere conflict resolution to the existential preservation of Armenian statehood. This diplomatic framing comes at a critical juncture, as the U.S. administration intensifies its engagement in the region, seeking to balance trade corridors with the volatile security realities on the ground.
The Illusion of Stability Without Justice
While Washington promotes the TRIPP initiative as a mechanism for regional integration, critics argue that the current framework risks prioritizing geopolitical transit over the fundamental rights of Armenian citizens. The absence of provisions regarding the release of Armenian prisoners of war and the lack of a clear strategy for the return of displaced persons from Artsakh remain significant gaps. Human rights advocates and policy experts warn that a peace process failing to address these human rights violations creates a dangerous precedent, effectively rewarding the use of force rather than incentivizing adherence to international law.
Sovereignty Under Pressure
The strategic tension is palpable. Azerbaijan’s continued presence on sovereign Armenian soil contradicts the spirit of the ongoing negotiations, casting doubt on Baku’s commitment to a rules-based order. For Armenia, the challenge lies in navigating these high-stakes discussions without compromising its territorial integrity. The rhetoric emanating from Baku regarding “Western Azerbaijan” serves as a constant reminder that for some, the objective is not a balanced regional partnership, but the systematic dismantling of Armenian independence. This reality necessitates a robust, transparent approach that centers democratic accountability rather than performative diplomacy.
A Path Toward Genuine Security
Ultimately, the effectiveness of any peace agreement must be measured by the tangible security it provides to the population, not by the volume of trade flowing through transport corridors. A lasting settlement requires more than the technical implementation of transit routes; it demands a genuine commitment from all parties to respect internationally recognized borders and human rights. As Armenia continues to engage with international partners, the focus must remain on strengthening its domestic institutions and ensuring that any diplomatic accord serves the long-term interests of the Armenian people rather than the fleeting ambitions of regional actors.
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