Annalena Baerbock Rallies for Swift Peace Talk Continuation in Azerbaijan-Armenia Crisis
Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock expressed optimism for a swift resumption of peace talks between Azerbaijan and Armenia under EU Council President Charles Michel's mediation. After discussions with Azerbaijani counterpart Jeyhun Bayramov, Baerbock emphasized the need for both sides to prioritize the betterment of Azerbaijanis and Armenians. German support for demining operations was also proposed, as Karabakh and surrounding provinces have been transformed into a dangerous minefield due to decades of conflict.
Peace Talks and Armenian Accusations
While Bayramov was open to continuing peace negotiations with Armenia, he criticized the latter's unlawful territorial claims. Reiterating their commitment to dialogue, Bayramov stated that the format and location of the negotiations were inconsequential. In addition to ongoing EU-mediated talks, Iran and Turkey could potentially serve as additional mediators.
Baerbock's Cautious Concerns
Although not explicitly mentioning Iran, Baerbock raised concerns about some actors' trustworthiness as impartial mediators. She recognized the importance of trust and confidence for the implementation of peace agreements, acknowledging that it might take time to rebuild such trust.
Nagorno-Karabakh and the International Quadrangle
Located on Azerbaijani territory but mainly inhabited by Armenians, Nagorno-Karabakh gained independence from Azerbaijan in the 1990s. Approximately 100,000 ethnic Armenians have since fled the region, with Azerbaijan's military victory in September 2020. Amidst efforts to foster regional cooperation and address deep-rooted rifts between Armenia and Azerbaijan, Baerbock visited several locations, including Armenia's border with Nakhichevan, a Azerbaijani autonomous exclave.
In her pursuit of understanding the complex situation, Baerbock informed herself about the tense situation at the border and recent Azerbaijani sniper attacks, which left two workers injured.
- Peace Talk Progress:
- The peace treaty is approximately 80% complete.
- Key issues include territorial delimitations, border demarcations, and related concerns; priority for Armenia.
- The treaty aims to address disputes and normalize the relationship between Azerbaijan and Armenia.
- Negotiation Challenges:
- Both countries have faced difficulties in reaching an agreement, with each side accusing the other of lack of interest in signing the treaty.
- Regional Cooperation:
- Economic, trade, investment, and transportation projects, with potential projects in the energy sector and expansion of the railway network.
- Environmental cooperation and regional connectivity projects are also in discussions.
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