Armenia and Azerbaijan Reach Draft Peace Agreement, Paving Way to End Decades of Conflict

Armenia and Azerbaijan have finalized the text of a peace agreement, marking a breakthrough in efforts to end nearly four decades of hostilities over Nagorno-Karabakh. Both countries confirmed on Thursday that negotiations on the draft agreement were complete.

Armenia’s Foreign Ministry stated that the agreement is ready for signing and proposed consultations on the date and location. Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the completion of talks. However, a signing date remains uncertain, as Azerbaijan demands changes to Armenia’s constitution, which it claims implies territorial claims. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has acknowledged the need for constitutional reforms and proposed a referendum, though no date has been set.

The long-standing conflict dates back to the late 1980s when Nagorno-Karabakh, a region in Azerbaijan with a majority Armenian population, sought independence with Armenia’s backing. This led to wars and mass expulsions, with Armenians fleeing Azerbaijan and Azeris leaving Armenia. In September 2023, Azerbaijan retook Karabakh, prompting nearly 100,000 Armenians to flee to Armenia, where they now reside as refugees.

Tensions have remained high despite both nations expressing a desire for peace. The 1,000 km border remains closed and militarized. A provision in the draft deal reportedly prevents third-party personnel, including EU monitors and Russian border guards, from being deployed along the border.

While Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev recently accused Armenia of posing a "fascist" threat, this agreement signals a potential turning point in the conflict. If signed, it could bring lasting stability to the South Caucasus.