By Armenia has returned four border villages to Azerbaijan, marking a significant development in the efforts to normalize relations between the two historic rivals. The return of these villages seized decades ago, represents a crucial step towards achieving a comprehensive peace agreement following years of stalled negotiations facilitated by Russia and Western nations.
The Caucasus nations, both former Soviet republics, engaged in two conflicts in the 1990s and a more recent one in 2020 over the control of Nagorno-Karabakh, a breakaway region. Azerbaijan reclaimed the territory last year, putting an end to Armenian separatist rule and prompting a large-scale exodus of residents into Armenia.
Armenia’s acceptance of this territorial transfer, despite facing internal protests, reflects a willingness to pursue diplomatic solutions and foster stability in the region. Meanwhile, the diplomatic rift between Armenia and its traditional ally, Russia, underscores the complexities of regional alliances and security dynamics.
The repositioning of Armenian and Azerbaijani border guards to reflect the new territorial arrangement highlights the practical implementation of the border demarcation agreement brokered recently. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s decision to return the abandoned villages in March signifies a commitment to advancing peace efforts and resolving long-standing disputes.
As Armenia and Azerbaijan navigate this pivotal moment in their relationship, the return of these villages serves as a tangible step towards building trust and cooperation, laying the groundwork for a more peaceful and prosperous future in the region.
