International observers are expressing cautious optimism following the signing of a peace accord between Armenia and Azerbaijan, brokered at the White House with the involvement of US President Donald Trump.
The agreement aims to de-escalate decades of conflict and foster regional economic development, including provisions for long-term exclusive rights for the United States. Ratification of the accord by both national governments remains a pending step.
“Many have tried to find a solution” President Trump stated Friday, alongside Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. “With this agreement, we’ve finally been able to achieve peace.
A key component of the agreement is a planned transit corridor in the South Caucasus, provisionally named “Tripp” – translated as “Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity”. President Trump noted he had not requested the corridor be named in his honor.
The diplomatic efforts have garnered praise from international partners, including Germany. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul welcomed the development, stating, “Armenia and Azerbaijan are today opening a new chapter in their history”. He described the signing as “hope for many people in Armenia and Azerbaijan who look back on a long history of conflict, displacement and suffering.
A significant aspect of the agreement is the mutual consent of both sides to dissolve the OSCE Minsk Group, established in the 1990s to mediate the conflict. “Germany has been actively involved in this path alongside our partners for some time, through regular high-level exchanges and peace negotiations in Berlin last year” stated Wadephul. He added that Germany has for years promoted confidence-building measures between the two nations, providing €27.5 million in humanitarian aid and deploying civilian personnel to the South Caucasus, notably through the EU Mission in Armenia.
The immediate priority now is the ratification of the peace treaty by both governments. “Germany remains ready to support Armenia and Azerbaijan on the path to lasting peace” the Foreign Minister pledged.
This agreement represents the latest in a series of diplomatic breakthroughs facilitated by the White House. It follows closely on the heels of a ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand achieved last month, after President Trump warned of potential disruptions to trade negotiations should hostilities continue.
The US President is also seeking to advance efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine. A meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled for Friday in Alaska.