In his interview, Mirzoyan described his meeting with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan as positive, emphasizing the ongoing dialogue to mend ties between the two neighbors. "Our final goal, the aim, is to fully normalize relations, including establishing diplomatic relations and opening the whole border," Mirzoyan stated, highlighting the potential for significant trade, joint energy projects, and transit opportunities.
He pointed to tangible steps already taken, such as mutual use of airspace and joint assessments of border infrastructure, including the Margara-Alijan crossing point, the Gyumri-Kars railway section, and the historic Ani bridge. However, Mirzoyan also noted setbacks, specifically mentioning an unimplemented agreement to open the border for third-country nationals and diplomatic passport holders. "Things are moving... At the same time, some agreements are not being implemented," he acknowledged, stressing the importance of direct communication to counter potential misperceptions in both societies.
Shifting focus to the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace process, Mirzoyan confirmed that both sides have finalized and agreed upon a draft peace agreement text. This comprehensive treaty, which addresses key issues such as territorial integrity and the return of displaced persons, is quite an achievement and an unprecedented thing, he told CNN Türk, adding that Armenia proposed immediate consultations to set a signing date and venue.
However, the signing is currently stalled. Mirzoyan explained that Azerbaijan has introduced preconditions. Baku demands the dissolution of the OSCE Minsk Group – a body historically tasked with mediating the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict – and amendments to Armenia's Constitution before signing the treaty.
Regarding the Minsk Group, Mirzoyan stated Armenia's readiness to initiate its dissolution. The Minsk Group, a body historically tasked with mediating the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, becomes redundant if the conflict ends with a peace treaty. He proposed signing the peace treaty and jointly applying to the OSCE to dissolve the Minsk Group on the same day.
On the constitutional issue, Azerbaijan objects to a reference in Armenia's preamble to its Act of Independence, claiming it contains territorial claims. Mirzoyan refuted this, arguing the agreed peace treaty text explicitly resolves the matter by confirming mutual recognition of territorial integrity based on Soviet-era borders. This provision, which will undergo scrutiny by Armenia's Constitutional Court during ratification, is a key element that should reassure both sides and the international community.
Days later, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, following a meeting with visiting German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Baku, forcefully reiterated these demands. "Once these two conditions are met [Minsk Group dissolution and constitutional change], there will be no obstacle to signing the peace treaty... the ball is in Armenia's court," Aliyev stated, according to the Azertac state news agency. While claiming Baku initiated the peace process and acted in good faith, he framed the demands as legitimate prerequisites.
German President Steinmeier, visiting both capitals, urged both sides to seize the historic opportunity and sign the agreement, acknowledging that complete reconciliation will be a long process but stressing the importance of taking the first step. The international support for this peace process is a source of encouragement and hope, highlighting the potential for a positive outcome.