Title of the article: “The European summit in Grenada: a missed opportunity to find a peaceful solution in the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan”
Introduction:
The European Political Community summit held in Grenada was a crucial opportunity to discuss the worrying situation between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Unfortunately, the notable absences of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan affected the discussions. Despite this, French President Emmanuel Macron stressed the importance of maintaining dialogue to best protect Armenia. This article will explore the reasons for the absence of Azerbaijani leaders, the prospects for talks between Azerbaijan and Armenia, as well as the issues at stake in this regional conflict.
Reasons for the absence of Azerbaijani presidents in Grenada:
The absence of Azerbaijani Presidents Ilham Aliev and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the European summit in Grenada has raised questions. The Azerbaijani official cited an “anti-Azerbaijani atmosphere” to explain this decision. He also mentioned France’s militarization policy in the region and Turkey’s absence as factors influencing this choice. However, he clarified that this did not mean a refusal to dialogue with Armenia.
Prospects for talks between Azerbaijan and Armenia:
Despite the absence of Azerbaijani leaders, Azerbaijan expressed its readiness to start talks with Armenia under the mediation of the European Union. An adviser to the Azerbaijani president said Azerbaijan would participate in tripartite meetings in Brussels between the European Union, Azerbaijan and Armenia. This initiative is encouraging because it opens the way to a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
The issues at stake in the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan:
The conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan dates back several decades. The Nagorno-Karabakh region was the scene of two wars, one during the dislocation of the USSR and the other in 2020 for control of this enclave. Armenia now fears that the more powerful and better armed Azerbaijan will carry out operations in its southern territories.
In addition, relations between Armenia and Russia have become strained following the Nagorno-Karabakh offensive, with the country feeling abandoned by its Russian ally. This has regional implications as Russia plays a major role in resolving the conflict.
Conclusion:
The summit of the European Political Community in Grenada could have been a major opportunity to find a peaceful solution to the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Unfortunately, the absence of Azerbaijani leaders hampered the discussions. However, Azerbaijan’s offer of EU-mediated talks offers a glimmer of hope for a peaceful resolution. It is essential that the different parties continue to work together and maintain dialogue in order to find a lasting solution for the region.