Baku: The Azerbaijan State News Agency (AZERTAC) presents an interview with Dr. Mehmet Fatih Oztarsu, Director of Eurasian Affairs at the Seoul Institute of Global Affairs (SIGA).
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the turning point in the normalization of relations between Baku and Yerevan came in 2025 with the signing of a joint declaration in Washington. From Turkey's perspective, this marked a significant moment in negotiations, with Ankara assessing Armenia's readiness to finalize a peace treaty in 2026 as a test of credibility, consistency, and implementation. The Turkish government acknowledges that the current Armenian leadership under Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has shown more political willingness to pursue peace than previous administrations, despite domestic political constraints.
Ankara aligns its assessment with Azerbaijan's core expectations, focusing on the recognition of sovereignty and territorial integrity, and the absence of third-party military presence along the border. These demands are seen as vital for a durable peace and confidence-building among the parties. The process now emphasizes legal and institutional benchmarks, creating both opportunities and responsibilities for Armenia.
The Turkish side believes Armenia's willingness is genuine and politically significant, with the potential for a finalized peace treaty in 2026 dependent on meeting Azerbaijan's expectations. A comprehensive peace agreement could lead to long-term stability and regional integration in the South Caucasus, although upcoming elections in Armenia could impact the peace process.
The TRIPP project and the Zangezur Corridor are viewed as crucial for Turkey in terms of unifying the Turkic world and strengthening the Middle Corridor. The project amplifies Turkey's existing role and strengthens land connectivity with Azerbaijan and Central Asia. Beyond regional benefits, the corridor enhances access to European markets and deepens linkages with the Middle East, representing a shift toward connectivity and economic interdependence in regional politics.
Turkey has consistently supported this vision through railway and highway connections, reflecting its strategy of positioning itself as a reliable connector across continents. TRIPP has the potential to transform the region, opening new avenues for cooperation from Europe to Asia.
Azerbaijan's diplomatic success stems from a long-term strategic vision articulated by Heydar Aliyev, focusing on engaging major powers equally and avoiding restrictive alignments. The country's geostrategic location and resources have been transformed into diplomatic leverage, delivering tangible results such as avoiding regional isolation and enhancing global relevance.
Azerbaijan's approach emphasizes engagement, dialogue, and cooperation, maintaining open channels with Western and Eastern actors while preserving sovereign decision-making. The country has established itself as a key facilitator of peace diplomacy, exhibiting attributes of an emerging middle power.
Rather than isolating itself, Azerbaijan has used its resources for engagement and influence, transforming energy into an active diplomatic tool. This strategic choice positions Azerbaijan on a trajectory toward middle power status, continuing to pursue stability, connectivity, and constructive engagement with consistency and confidence.