Baku: President Ilham Aliyev emphasized the significance of achieving peace with Armenia beyond mere agreements at the opening ceremony of the 13th Global Baku Forum, APA reports. He highlighted that the co-chairs of the Minsk Group intended to prolong the conflict to use it as leverage over both nations, which Azerbaijan overcame by pursuing bilateral engagement without mediators.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, President Aliyev underscored the threats posed by ongoing global conflicts to international law and order. He noted Azerbaijan's journey from suffering occupation and ethnic cleansing to restoring sovereignty and offering peace to Armenia. The peace deal, initialed and supported by a joint declaration seven months ago, has resulted in a quiet border and cessation of hostilities. Azerbaijan's commitment to peace includes lifting trade restrictions and exporting critical oil products to Armenia, showcasing a strategy for lasting peace.

President Aliyev criticized past mediation efforts, particularly the 28 years of Minsk Group involvement, which he described as a failure. By opting for direct bilateral engagement, Azerbaijan achieved peace, providing a model for resolving other conflicts. He emphasized that Azerbaijan's actions during the Second Garabagh War were aligned with international law, using force to secure peace and demonstrating the country's peaceful intentions.