Islamabad : Pakistan on Saturday welcomed the landmark peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia, brokered by the United States at the White House Summit under President Donald Trump’s mediation.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a statement on social media platform X, lauded the deal as a “new era of peace, stability, and cooperation” in the South Caucasus, a region long plagued by conflict.
Key Points from PM Shehbaz’s Statement:
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“We congratulate President Ilham Aliyev and the people of Azerbaijan on this historic agreement, which reflects wisdom and foresight for a peaceful future.”
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“Pakistan has always stood by Azerbaijan, and we stand with them at this proud moment.”
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Appreciation for the US role: “We commend President Trump’s efforts in facilitating this agreement, which opens doors for trade, connectivity, and regional integration.”
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Hope for global impact: “This spirit of dialogue should inspire other conflict-ridden regions.”
Details of the US-Brokered Deal:
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End to Decades of Hostility: The agreement aims to normalize relations after 35 years of conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh.
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Diplomatic & Territorial Commitments: Both nations agreed to cease hostilities, establish diplomatic ties, and respect territorial integrity.
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Strategic Economic Gains: The US secured development rights to a key transit corridor in the South Caucasus, boosting energy and trade prospects.
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Defense & Tech Cooperation: The deal includes expanded US-Azerbaijan defense and AI partnerships, a move likely to unsettle Russia.
Trump’s Remarks at Signing Ceremony:
Flanked by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan, Trump declared: “After 35 years of fighting, they’re now friends.” Both leaders reportedly pledged to nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize.
Background:
The conflict traces back to the late 1980s when ethnic Armenian-majority Nagorno-Karabakh sought independence from Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan regained full control in 2023, triggering a mass exodus of ethnic Armenians.
The breakthrough deal, if sustained, marks a rare diplomatic win for Trump and could reshape regional dynamics, challenging Moscow’s influence.
