US welcomes Armenia-Azerbaijan border agreement as step toward peace

The United States has welcomed a recent agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan to establish formal procedures for border delimitation, a development that U.S. officials say could contribute to lasting peace in the region. The State Department expressed support for the move on Thursday, emphasizing the significance of open dialogue in reducing tensions between the two nations.

“The U.S. commends Armenia and Azerbaijan for formalizing the rules of procedure for border delimitation, demonstrating that progress is possible through sustained dialogue,” State Department spokesman Matthew Miller posted on the social media platform X.

Miller went on to underscore Washington’s backing of both sides’ efforts toward a “durable, dignified peace” that promotes regional stability and prosperity.

The remarks followed the recent ratification of a bilateral agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan outlining the statute governing the joint activities of their border delimitation commissions. The agreement, signed on August 30, marks a milestone in the countries’ efforts to resolve disputes through formal frameworks for cooperation.

Tensions between Baku and Yerevan date back to 1991, following the collapse of the Soviet Union and the subsequent occupation of Karabakh by Armenian forces. The territory, internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan, was held by Armenia alongside seven adjacent regions until 2020, when a 44-day war culminated in Azerbaijan reclaiming most of the area. The conflict ended with a peace accord brokered by Russia, which paved the way for normalization efforts and initiated formal border demarcation discussions.

In September 2023, Azerbaijan consolidated its control over Karabakh after launching an operation described as an “anti-terrorist” initiative. The action prompted the surrender of separatist forces in the region, further intensifying the focus on peaceful resolution efforts between the neighboring countries.