In an exclusive interview with Al Arabiya, President Ilham Aliyev outlines the impact of the U.S.-brokered deal, regional connectivity ambitions, and Azerbaijan’s mediation efforts from the South Caucasus to the Middle East.
Speaking from Baku, President Ilham Aliyev described the August 8 Washington agreement as a historic turning point for the South Caucasus, paving the way for peace after decades of conflict with Armenia. In a wide-ranging conversation, he addressed Azerbaijan’s reconstruction plans, the Zangezur Corridor project, relations with Russia and Iran, and a growing diplomatic footprint in the Middle East.
Key Takeaways from the Interview
Washington Agreement Ends Decades of Conflict
Aliyev called the agreement “the end of confrontation and tension,” marking the close of a conflict that spanned more than 30 years.
Stay Ahead with Azerbaijan.usGet exclusive translations, top stories, and analysis — straight to your inbox.Formal peace awaits constitutional changes in Armenia to remove clauses challenging Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity.
Quote: “This agreement means the war is over. It opens new opportunities not only for the South Caucasus but also for Central Asia and the Middle East.”
Risks of Political Reversal in Armenia
The President warned that any attempt by a future Armenian government to backtrack would damage Yerevan’s relations with the U.S., EU, and regional partners.
Quote: “Breaking this deal would mean going against the entire international community.”
OSCE Minsk Group Dissolution
Aliyev confirmed that steps have begun to dissolve the Minsk Group, which he called “legally absurd” after Armenia recognized Karabakh as part of Azerbaijan.
Quote: “This process is already underway and reflects reality.”
Reconstruction and the “Great Return”
Over 50,000 displaced Azerbaijanis have returned to liberated areas.
Major obstacles:
Landmines: Over 1 million mines planted by Armenia; nearly 400 victims since 2020.
Destroyed Infrastructure: Entire cities and utilities razed; priority remains roads, power, and housing.
Zangezur Corridor and TRIPP
Aliyev detailed plans for the Zangezur Corridor, branded the Trump International Peace and Prosperity Route (TRIPP) after U.S. mediation.
Historical Context: Zangezur was separated from Azerbaijan in 1920 during Soviet rule, cutting off Nakhchivan.
Strategic significance:
Links East-West and North-South trade routes.
Benefits Armenia through transit revenues.
Expected to reshape Eurasian connectivity.
Quote: “This will not only unite Azerbaijan but create a new corridor connecting continents.”
Relations with Iran
The President emphasized “constructive and friendly” ties, dismissing rumors about plans to cut the Iran-Armenia border.
Highlighted Araz Corridor project as an alternative route through Iran.
Relations with Russia
Aliyev condemned Russia’s downing of an Azerbaijani civilian plane, calling it a “tragic mistake,” and contrasted it with Azerbaijan’s prompt apology for the 2020 helicopter incident.
He warned against attacks on Azerbaijanis in Russia: “We will never tolerate aggression.”
Middle East Mediation Role
Azerbaijan is mediating talks between Israel and Syria and supporting energy aid to Damascus.
Launched gas supply to Syria via Turkey and Qatar, with plans to expand volume.
Expressed readiness to assist normalization between Turkey and Israel if requested.
Energy Diplomacy
Azerbaijan supplies gas to 10 European countries and plans to boost exports by 8 bcm by 2030.
Growing partnerships in the Gulf, including major investments in renewables from UAE and Saudi Arabia.
Turkic World and Regional Power
Azerbaijan champions the Organization of Turkic States, envisioning it as a “global player” with strong political, military, and economic ties.
Stressed unity as a counterbalance to regional instability.
Quote of the Day:
“If Armenia questions our territorial integrity, we will question theirs.” — President Ilham Aliyev
