Azerbaijan.US
Azerbaijani lawmaker Rasim Musabekov says that while early signs of cooperation between Azerbaijan and Armenia are emerging, meaningful and large-scale partnership will remain impossible without a formal peace agreement and restored infrastructure.
Speaking to the YouTube channel Daily Europe Online, Musabekov noted that Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s growing visibility at international forums is a normal part of political life ahead of elections and should not be overinterpreted.
According to Musabekov, Azerbaijan has already taken practical steps that demonstrate the benefits of de-escalation. He pointed to the opening of transit routes through Azerbaijani territory and the supply of Azerbaijani energy resources to Armenia, which, he said, has contributed to a 10–15 percent drop in fuel prices at Armenian gas stations.
“These are tangible peace dividends that ordinary Armenian citizens can already feel,” he said.
At the same time, Musabekov stressed that symbolic gestures are not enough. Without a signed peace treaty, the establishment of diplomatic relations, and the restoration of transport and economic infrastructure, sustainable cooperation cannot take shape. He highlighted the importance of reopening railways and roads, including routes linking Armenia with Nakhchivan and mainland Azerbaijan.
Commenting on proposals to integrate the energy systems of the South Caucasus, Musabekov said such cooperation is technically feasible and economically rational. He noted that during the Soviet period, the region operated within a unified energy network, and restoring energy flows could benefit all sides once relations normalize.
Musabekov also addressed recent statements by Russian political commentators, dismissing figures such as Alexander Dugin as marginal voices who do not shape Kremlin policy. He cautioned against overreacting to provocative rhetoric that, in his view, serves more as media noise than as a reflection of real political intent.
Turning to the war in Ukraine, Musabekov argued that Europe remains Ukraine’s main financial backer and is doing what it realistically can under current conditions. While acknowledging frustrations in Kyiv, he warned that harsh public criticism of European leaders could complicate long-term diplomatic relations.
In his closing remarks, Musabekov emphasized that heads of state and senior officials should avoid inflammatory language toward their counterparts. Even during periods of conflict, he said, diplomatic communication channels must remain open.
“Peace and lasting cooperation are built on trust and institutions, not on applause or emotional statements,” Musabekov concluded.
