Iran Supports Draft Peace Agreement Between Armenia and Azerbaijan

Iran endorses the peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan, marking a significant step in resolving longstanding conflicts. While substantial progress has been made, some key issues require further dialogue before the agreement can be finalized.

Iran has formally expressed support for the peace agreement anticipated between Armenia and Azerbaijan, aimed at resolving nearly four decades of conflict. Esmaeil Baghaei, spokesperson for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, described the agreement as “a necessary and important step” towards establishing enduring peace in the South Caucasus region. He conveyed hope that both nations will address their unresolved matters through dialogue and swiftly finalize the agreement.

On Thursday, Armenia and Azerbaijan announced that they had agreed upon the text of a peace deal, with Armenia consenting to withdraw its claim over the disputed region of Karabakh. Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov confirmed the conclusion of negotiations regarding the peace treaty, stating, “Armenia has accepted Azerbaijan’s proposals on the two previously unresolved articles of the peace treaty.”

Armenia’s foreign ministry corroborated this progress, announcing that “negotiations on the draft agreement have been concluded” and that “the Peace Agreement is ready for signing.” Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan acknowledged this event as significant, indicating the country’s readiness to discuss details regarding the signing of the peace agreement. He described the draft as a compromise essential for peace.

Despite the advancements, Pashinyan highlighted that two critical aspects of the draft peace accord remain unresolved. These include the stipulation of “non-deployment of third-party forces” along the border as well as the mutual withdrawal of legal cases from international courts. The region of Karabakh has been central to two major conflicts between Armenia and Azerbaijan, specifically in 2020 and the 1990s. Historically recognized as part of Azerbaijan, Karabakh was seized by Azerbaijani forces in a brief yet intense military operation.

In conclusion, Iran has welcomed the draft peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan, viewing it as a step towards long-lasting peace. The two nations have made significant progress in negotiations, although some issues remain unresolved. Both parties appear committed to resolving outstanding conflicts, indicating a potential end to decades of hostilities over the Karabakh region. Continued dialogue is essential for the successful implementation of the peace deal.

Original Source: www.presstv.ir