Azerbaijani MP Urges International Support for Post-Conflict Recovery Ahead of Peace Deal with Armenia
Baku, The Gulf Observer: Significant progress has been made over the past year in advancing a lasting peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia, including the completion of negotiations on a draft peace agreement, according to Sevinj Fataliyeva, Member of Azerbaijan’s Milli Majlis (National Assembly). Her remarks were delivered during the 32nd Annual Session of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, held on June 30, under the theme “Commemorating 50 Years of the Helsinki Final Act: Responding to a New Reality in the OSCE.”
Fataliyeva expressed hope that the remaining obstacles, particularly the territorial claims on Azerbaijan embedded in Armenia’s constitution, would soon be addressed, thereby clearing the path for the official signing of the agreement.
“We sincerely hope that the remaining obstacles will soon be removed, paving the way for the signing of the agreement,” she said.
She stressed that while the peace process is nearing a historic milestone, tangible international support is urgently needed to address the severe humanitarian consequences of the decades-long conflict.
According to Fataliyeva, over 800,000 internally displaced Azerbaijanis are still unable to return to their homes due to the widespread destruction of nearly 900 towns and landmine contamination that affects approximately 14 percent of Azerbaijan’s territory. She noted that the total damage is estimated to exceed $150 billion.
“Over the past 30 years, more than 3,400 Azerbaijani citizens have fallen victim to landmine explosions, with nearly 400 incidents since 2020. The most recent occurred today, when a civilian in Aghdam lost a foot in a mine explosion,” she reported.
Fataliyeva called for strong international solidarity to assist Azerbaijan in its humanitarian demining, reconstruction, and rehabilitation efforts, emphasizing that these efforts are crucial not only for restoring affected communities but also for ensuring sustainable peace and reconciliation in the region.
She further urged all stakeholders to refrain from actions and rhetoric that could derail the peace process.
“We are on the eve of signing the peace treaty. If we do not stop accusing and presenting unrealistic and false facts to the audience, we will not move forward in peace negotiations,” she warned.
“It is time to accept the reality, the facts, and the ongoing processes.”
Fataliyeva’s address reflected Azerbaijan’s commitment to a peaceful resolution while underscoring the necessity of international engagement in post-conflict recovery and regional stability.
