Azerbaijani FM: We entered new post-conflict phase

“Azerbaijan has been committed to the negotiation process for almost thirty years, hoping that Armenia will understand the realities and withdraw its forces from the internationally recognized Azerbaijani territories in accordance with the norms and principles of international law and the decisions of international organizations. Azerbaijan made efforts to avoid an escalation of the conflict and make sure that the voice of truth would be heard in the international community,” reads an article by Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov on post-conflict realities in the region, published in TRT Deutsch, Report informs.

“On November 10, 2020, a new chapter opened in the history of Azerbaijan, Armenia and the entire Caucasus region. The trilateral statement signed by the heads of state of Azerbaijan, Armenia and Russia put an end to almost thirty years of armed conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The implementation of this statement led to the cessation of all hostilities and the return of the occupied regions to Azerbaijan. The statement includes an important provision regarding the return of internally displaced persons to their homes under the control of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR),” the foreign minister wrote.

The article also says that this agreement creates a new reality in the region and a new framework for cooperation.

“Particular attention should be paid to the contributions of Russia and Turkey to the implementation of this agreement. These neighboring states play an important role as guarantors of the above-mentioned agreement, the implementation of which will ensure long-overdue peace and stability in the South Caucasus region.

Azerbaijan is determined to reintegrate its citizens of Armenian origin who are located in the areas affected by the conflict into its political, social and economic space and to guarantee all Azerbaijani citizens the same rights and freedoms, regardless of their ethnic or religious affiliation. The Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan provides a solid legal basis for this.

We have entered a new post-conflict phase, a phase of reconstruction and restoration of peaceful coexistence. This opens up new opportunities for development and cooperation,” reads Bayramov’s article.