A recent conversation between US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev focused on the importance of advancing the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia. During the discussion, Blinken emphasized the need to avoid escalating tensions on the border, warning that aggressive actions and rhetoric from either side could hinder progress towards peace.
President Aliyev countered accusations in the West about Azerbaijan’s intentions to attack Armenia, stating that they are baseless. He also mentioned discussions held by Foreign Ministers in Berlin regarding a peace agreement text and stressed the importance of speeding up negotiations.
Blinken assured Aliyev that recent meetings were not directed against Azerbaijan, despite concerns raised by the Prime Minister of Armenia. Additionally, he called for the release of unjustly arrested individuals during the conversation.
Aliyev reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to declarations adopted in previous meetings while addressing statements made by French Foreign Minister regarding territorial integrity, labeling them as false. The discussion between Blinken and Aliyev emphasized the need for continued dialogue and cooperation to achieve lasting peace in the region.
