Nagorno-Karabakh: Azerbaijan meets with Armenian separatists

 The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is a long-standing and deep-rooted problem in the South Caucasus region. This conflict, which has its origins in the early 20th century, escalated into all-out war in the late 20th century and has simmered with occasional flare-ups ever since. In 2020, a major conflict erupted between Azerbaijan and Armenia over Nagorno-Karabakh, leading to a ceasefire agreement brokered by Russia. Following this cease-fire, Azerbaijan and Armenian separatists now face the daunting task of finding a peaceful solution to this protracted dispute

Historical context

At the heart of this conflict was Nagorno-Karabakh, an enclave in Azerbaijan inhabited mostly by Armenians. The roots of the dispute go back to the early 20th century, when the region, historically inhabited by Armenians, was incorporated into Soviet Azerbaijan. As the Soviet Union began to disintegrate in the late 1980s, ethnic tensions flared in the region, leading to a brutal war between Armenia and Azerbaijan that lasted until a ceasefire in 1994.

Status Quo

For years, Nagorno-Karabakh remained in a de facto state of self-government under the control of Armenian forces. Despite occasional negotiations, a comprehensive peace agreement was nowhere in sight. This changed dramatically in September 2020 when hostilities broke out again. The conflict caused significant casualties and destruction, necessitating international intervention.

Armistice and its consequences

A key turning point in the recent escalation of the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh was the ceasefire agreement brokered by Russia in November 2020. The agreement brought an end to the fighting, but many issues remain unresolved. As part of the ceasefire, Armenia agreed to withdraw from several territories surrounding Nagorno-Karabakh, which had been under its control for decades. This represented a significant concession and reshaped the territorial dynamics of the conflict.

Azerbaijan's strategic gains

The ceasefire agreement gave Azerbaijan control over territories it had long sought to regain, including areas with significant Azerbaijani populations. The victory was hailed in Azerbaijan as a major achievement, marking the end of a decades-long struggle to regain control of Nagorno-Karabakh and its surrounding areas.

Challenges Ahead

The ceasefire agreement opened a new chapter in the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh, which includes negotiations and the search for a lasting solution. The challenges ahead are formidable, including:

Status of Nagorno-Karabakh: The final status of Nagorno-Karabakh remains a contentious issue. Armenia supports the idea of ​​recognizing the enclave's independence, while Azerbaijan insists on its territorial integrity.

Return of displaced persons: The conflict resulted in a significant number of internally displaced persons on both sides. The safe return of these people to their homes is a critical humanitarian issue.

Security and peacekeeping: Russian peacekeepers have been deployed in Nagorno-Karabakh to monitor the ceasefire, but their presence is not a long-term solution. It is essential to create a security framework that all parties can agree on.

Economic recovery: The conflict has caused severe damage to infrastructure and communities. The restoration of these areas is vital for the stability and prosperity of the region.

Diplomatic efforts

Efforts to resolve the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh continue on several fronts. The key platform for negotiations remains the OSCE Minsk Group, co-chaired by the United States, France and Russia. Diplomatic initiatives are essential to bridge the gap between the parties and to work towards a mutually acceptable solution.

The ceasefire agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenian separatists in Nagorno-Karabakh marked a significant development in the long-running conflict. While this has brought an end to active hostilities, the path to a comprehensive and lasting solution is fraught with challenges. The status of Nagorno-Karabakh, the return of the displaced population, security measures and economic recovery all pose formidable obstacles. International diplomacy, including the efforts of the OSCE Minsk Group, will play a key role in navigating this complex terrain and in the pursuit of peaceful coexistence in the South Caucasus. The world is watching with hope that the region can finally turn away from the cycle of violence towards a brighter and more stable future.