Experts: Armenia and Azerbaijan are closer to peace than ever before
Recent diplomatic efforts suggest Armenia and Azerbaijan may be on the verge of a historic peace agreement.
In a significant diplomatic development, U.S. Vice President James David Vance recently concluded a historic visit to Armenia, marking the first time a U.S. official of such high rank has visited the country. This visit aims to reinforce the agreement brokered last year by former President Trump, which sought to facilitate peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The Vice President emphasized that Armenia could become a critical support point for economic development in the region, which would not only assist in sustaining the peace agreement but also generate significant prosperity for both Armenian and American citizens.
For decades, the relationship between Armenia and Azerbaijan has been marred by violent clashes and territorial disputes, notably over the region of Nagorno-Karabakh, which is predominantly populated by Armenians and guarded by Russian peacekeepers. The Vice President's remarks highlight the progress made since Azerbaijan's swift military operation in September 2023, which involved taking control over parts of this contested region. This development intensifies the urgency for a lasting peace settlement to avoid further escalation of tensions in the area.
The implications of a successful peace resolution extend beyond the immediate region; as Vance noted, the economic benefits could foster stability and interconnectedness between Armenia and neighboring countries, thereby enhancing regional cooperation and security. With historical grievances present, the focus now turns to how U.S. involvement can effectively aid both nations in reaching a sustainable agreement that could reshape the geopolitical landscape of the South Caucasus.