Pashinyan, Putin emphasize peace with Azerbaijan as key to regional stability

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan described the establishment of peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan as a turning point for the South Caucasus, highlighting new opportunities for regional stability and economic cooperation during talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin.

Pashinyan said the normalization of relations has created “fundamentally new realities” in the region, enabling progress on long-standing issues, including the unblocking of transport links and the expansion of economic ties.

“I believe that the establishment of peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan positively impacts not only our bilateral relations but also our cooperation with regional partners, including the Russian Federation,” Pashinyan said.

He pointed in particular to the launch of railway cargo transportation between Armenia and Russia via Azerbaijani territory, describing it as a breakthrough achieved for the first time since Armenia’s independence. According to Pashinyan, the development strengthens regional connectivity and reinforces Armenia’s economic integration within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).

President Vladimir Putin also welcomed the stabilization of Armenia-Azerbaijan relations, noting that sustained efforts by the parties, alongside international engagement, have helped bring the process to a new stage. He expressed hope that ongoing steps, including the reopening of transport routes, would contribute to long-term stability in the region.

The leaders discussed the broader implications of peace for the South Caucasus, with both sides emphasizing the importance of consolidating the current progress and preventing renewed tensions.

Pashinyan reiterated that Armenia and Azerbaijan have mutually recognized each other’s territorial integrity based on the 1991 Alma-Ata Declaration, calling it a solid foundation for advancing a durable peace agenda.

He also stressed that Armenia is focused on a forward-looking approach, underscoring the need to move beyond past conflicts and prioritize development, connectivity, and cooperation.