Azerbaijan Sets 2026 Peace Agenda with Armenia

During the annual end-of-year press conference, Jeyhun Bayramov, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan, summarized the progress made in the reconciliation process with Armenia. He highlighted the achievements of the past year and set the agenda for the upcoming period, specifically targeting 2026 for significant milestones.

The diplomatic focus remains on normalizing relations and establishing a durable peace framework. Key priorities include the demarcation of state borders and the restoration of economic ties. The minister reiterated Azerbaijan's commitment to the peace process based on the principles of international law.

Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov utilized the press conference to review the current state of bilateral relations. He noted that the reconciliation process has moved forward, though challenges remain. The minister's remarks focused on the strategic importance of achieving a comprehensive peace agreement.

The Azerbaijani government views the normalization of ties as essential for regional development. Bayramov stated that the country is prepared to continue constructive dialogue. The focus is on transforming the current ceasefire into a permanent peace settlement.

The timeline for 2026 represents a critical phase in the peace process. Azerbaijan aims to finalize the bilateral peace treaty during this period. This objective requires sustained diplomatic engagement and the resolution of outstanding issues.

Key components of the agenda include:

• Finalizing the text of the peace treaty.
• Establishing diplomatic relations.
• Opening transport and communication links.

The minister emphasized that the pace of progress depends on the political will of both nations. Azerbaijan has expressed readiness to sign the treaty based on agreed-upon principles.

A central pillar of the reconciliation process is the delimitation and demarcation of the interstate border. Jeyhun Bayramov highlighted that work in this direction is progressing. The process involves the use of legal documents and cartographic materials.

Azerbaijan insists that the border demarcation must respect the territorial integrity of both states. The minister noted that joint commissions are working on the technical aspects of this process. Ensuring security along the border is a top priority for Baku.

Beyond bilateral issues, the Azerbaijan and Armenia reconciliation is linked to broader regional stability. The opening of transport corridors is a significant economic and political goal. This includes the realization of regional infrastructure projects.

The normalization of the situation on the ground is expected to boost economic activity in the South Caucasus. Baku advocates for the unblocking of all regional communications. These steps are seen as vital for the prosperity of the entire region.

The statements by Jeyhun Bayramov indicate that Azerbaijan is entering a decisive phase in its relations with Armenia. The focus is firmly on achieving a peace treaty by 2026. Success in this endeavor depends on continued diplomatic efforts and adherence to mutual commitments.

The path forward involves complex negotiations, but the stated intent from Baku is to secure a lasting peace. The coming months will be crucial for determining the timeline of the peace agenda.