Armenia & Azerbaijan Shift Peace Talks to Bilateral Track
Armenia and Azerbaijan, both countries, have taken steps towards peace, shifting negotiations to bilateral talks following the 2020 war. Both nations are now in control of the peace process, with a focus on solidifying relations through improved transport links and joint economic ventures.
Key to this progress is the finalization of joint commissions on borders, transport, and treaty implementation, which should meet regularly to ensure smooth cooperation. The two countries are also urged to follow through on agreed confidence-building measures and expand them where possible.
Neutral venues and facilitators should be used for delicate issues, and neighboring countries should be involved in an inclusive approach. The USA, under former President Trump, played a facilitative role in initiating peace negotiations, hosting a historic ceasefire agreement signing in Washington in August 2025. This led to a cessation of hostilities but no final peace treaty yet. The US also aims to develop a transit corridor through the South Caucasus, the 'Trump route,' which influences regional connectivity and geopolitical dynamics.
Both Armenia and Azerbaijan are advised to be cautious when inviting foreign militaries or security guarantees, ensuring no strings are attached. Auxiliary agreements, such as a bilateral friendship treaty or security pact, could be considered to codify non-aggression and mutual consultation. Regular direct dialogue at all levels is necessary to sustain bilateralism, with decision-making authority retained by both countries.
The core of the conflict has shifted from status to state-to-state relations, with Baku and Yerevan negotiating directly on peace treaty terms, border delimitation, and connectivity. For lasting peace, ordinary Armenians and Azerbaijanis should feel the benefits early on through improved transport links and commerce. The peace process is now more firmly in the hands of Armenia and Azerbaijan themselves, with the international community supporting their efforts.
