Gabala Hosts Azerbaijan–Armenia Civil Society Dialogue Under “Peace Bridge” Initiative
Baku, The Gulf Observer: The city of Gabala hosted a significant bilateral roundtable under the “Peace Bridge” Initiative, bringing together civil society representatives from Azerbaijan and Armenia in a renewed effort to advance dialogue and confidence-building between the two nations.
The roundtable convened members of non-governmental organizations, media institutions, and think tanks from both sides. Notably, the Armenian delegation entered Azerbaijan via a land border crossing through a formally demarcated section, completing all necessary border and passport procedures—an act widely viewed as a symbolic step toward strengthening mutual trust.
Over the course of two days, participants engaged in four structured discussion sessions focusing on geopolitical developments in the South Caucasus and their implications for the ongoing peace process. Experts from both countries exchanged perspectives on national positions, regional dynamics, and future pathways toward normalization.
Prior to the dialogue, representatives of the “Peace Bridge” Initiative conducted consultations within their respective societies to gauge public sentiment regarding the peace process. Findings from these engagements were presented during a dedicated session, outlining key concerns, expectations, and viewpoints expressed by the public in both Azerbaijan and Armenia.
The concluding session centered on identifying future joint and individual initiatives, taking into account public expectations and the need to sustain momentum in peacebuilding efforts.
On April 11, participants of the fourth bilateral roundtable met with Hikmet Hajiyev, Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan and Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration. Discussions focused on regional security, political-level progress in the peace process, and the vital role of civil society in fostering normalization.
The two-day dialogue concluded with a joint press conference summarizing the outcomes of the meeting. Organizers noted that the discussions were held in an atmosphere of constructive engagement and candid exchange, reaffirming that peaceful dialogue remains the only viable path forward.
Participants, supported by the governments of both Azerbaijan and Armenia, expressed their commitment to continuing collaborative efforts aimed at strengthening trust and advancing the peace agenda in the region.
