The ongoing efforts by Armenia and Azerbaijan to reach a peace agreement represent a pivotal moment in the history of the South Caucasus. From a historical-chronological viewpoint, the current negotiations are not merely a contemporary event but a continuation of a conflict that has deep roots in the region's past. The recent talks in Abu Dhabi, held on July 10, 2025, between Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, are crucial steps in a process that has unfolded over decades.
The conflict's origins can be traced back to the early 20th century, with the collapse of the Russian Empire. The Soviet era saw the establishment of the Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Oblast within Azerbaijan, a decision that sowed the seeds of future tensions. The late 1980s and early 1990s witnessed the escalation of these tensions into open warfare, resulting in significant loss of life and displacement. The 1994 ceasefire, while halting the active fighting, failed to resolve the underlying issues, leaving the region in a state of frozen conflict for over two decades.
According to historical records, the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war, which lasted for 44 days, resulted in significant territorial gains for Azerbaijan and fundamentally altered the balance of power in the region. This conflict served as a catalyst for the current peace negotiations. The recent talks in Abu Dhabi are part of a broader trend of international involvement, with countries like Russia and the United States playing roles in facilitating dialogue. The timeline of events, from the initial clashes to the present negotiations, highlights the complex interplay of historical grievances, geopolitical interests, and the evolving dynamics of the South Caucasus.
The future of the region hinges on the successful resolution of the remaining issues. The delimitation of the border, the status of the Lachin corridor, and the return of internally displaced persons are key challenges that must be addressed. A lasting peace agreement would not only end the decades-long conflict but also pave the way for economic development and regional stability. The historical context underscores the importance of these negotiations and the potential for a new chapter in the history of the South Caucasus.