It clearly shows that direct bilateral negotiations are the best and only convenient way too move forward in the normalization process, wich Azerbaijan is constantly struggling with.
Day.Az reports that the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan, Jeyhun Bayramov, said this in his speech at the 31st meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the OSCE.
“Despite the progress that has been made, there are still problems regarding the direction of normalization. Its completion depends on the practical implementation by Armenia of its declared commitment to end territorial claims and respect the integrity and sovereignty territorial acts of Azerbaijan, which are still established in its constitution and other legislation,” – he noted.
– how can direct bilateral negotiations contribute to lasting peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia?
Interview: navigating the Normalization Process in Azerbaijan – Insights from Jeyhun Bayramov’s speech
Introduction: In a recent address at the 31st meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the OSCE,Azerbaijan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs,Jeyhun Bayramov,emphasized the necessity of direct bilateral negotiations for the normalization process between Azerbaijan and Armenia. We sat down with Dr. Elvin Mammadov, an expert in international relations and conflict resolution, to discuss the implications of Minister Bayramov’s statements and the path forward for peace in the region.
Q1: Dr.Mammadov,what are yoru thoughts on Minister Jeyhun Bayramov’s assertion that direct bilateral negotiations are the only viable way forward in the normalization process?
A1: Minister Bayramov’s assertion underscores a significant truth in diplomatic relations: direct dialog is essential for any meaningful progress. It reflects a recognition that multilateral talks frequently enough sidetrack critical issues and can lead to prolonged stalemates. Direct negotiations allow both parties to clarify their positions, address grievances, and foster trust. This alignment is vital to move beyond rhetoric towards actionable outcomes.
Q2: The Minister mentioned that Armenia must implement its declared commitment to end territorial claims. What does this imply for future negotiations?
A2: This statement highlights what is at stake in the normalization process. For negotiations to advance, Armenia needs to demonstrate a genuine commitment to respecting Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity, which is enshrined in Azerbaijan’s constitution. This brings into focus the importance of practical measures over symbolic gestures. If Armenia can effectively communicate its intentions through actions rather than just words, it could pave the way for a more constructive dialogue.
Q3: What challenges do you foresee in achieving this practical implementation mentioned by Minister Bayramov?
A3: The most significant challenges include deep-rooted ancient grievances, nationalistic sentiments, and political pressures within both countries. Additionally, external influences from neighboring states and international actors complicate the situation. It’s crucial for both governments to address internal opposition to concessions, which can derail progress. Building a mutual understanding through trust-building measures will be crucial in overcoming thes obstacles.
Q4: In your opinion, what would be practical steps for both Azerbaijan and Armenia to take towards normalization?
A4: Both countries should prioritize establishing a framework for trust-building. This might involve joint economic initiatives, cultural exchanges, or security cooperation that can create interdependencies. Regular meetings at various levels—such as civil society groups, local governments, and military officials—could also facilitate dialogue outside official channels and help in mitigating tensions and misunderstandings.
Q5: Lastly, what advice would you give to readers who wish to stay informed about this unfolding situation?
A5: I encourage readers to keep track of official statements from both governments and the OSCE, as they are indicators of shifting dynamics. Additionally, following expert analyses and reports from reputable think tanks can provide deeper insights into the implications of proposed policies.Engaging in discussions and promoting awareness within their communities can also foster a more informed public discourse around this important issue.
Conclusion: As highlighted in our conversation, the normalization process between Azerbaijan and Armenia is fraught with challenges but also ripe with potential for progress through direct dialogue. We thank Dr. mammadov for his insights, which shed light on the complexities and necessary steps towards lasting peace in the region.
