For decades, the relationship between Armenia and Azerbaijan has been overshadowed by conflict, mistrust, and unresolved disputes.
Now, in what could mark the beginning of a new chapter, the two nations have taken a significant step toward reconciliation by agreeing on a detailed peace framework.
On August 8, 2025, the foreign ministers of both countries met to paraf — or initial — a 17-point agreement designed to end hostilities and promote stability in the South Caucasus region.
From Paraf to Full Ratification
The agreement is not yet fully in force.
For it to become legally binding, it still requires a formal signing ceremony between the presidents of Armenia and Azerbaijan, followed by ratification in each nation’s parliament.
If approved, this could become one of the most important diplomatic milestones in the region’s modern history.
Rebuilding Diplomatic Bridges
One of the first priorities in the agreement is the restoration of diplomatic relations.
Both governments have acknowledged that open communication and official channels are essential for preventing misunderstandings and encouraging cooperation.
Letting Go of Old Disputes
A key commitment in the document is the renunciation of territorial claims.
Both sides have pledged that they will not pursue — or even raise — any territorial demands against one another in the future, closing the door on one of the most contentious issues in their shared history.
A Promise to Choose Peace Over Force
The treaty makes it clear: threats or use of force are off the table.
Both nations have agreed to resolve disagreements through peaceful dialogue, creating a foundation for long-term coexistence.
Defining the Border Together
Border delimitation is another central part of the deal.
Armenia and Azerbaijan will work together to negotiate and mark their state border, using the boundaries recognized during the Soviet era as the starting reference.
Temporary Security Measures
Until the border is fully demarcated, both countries will introduce agreed-upon security and confidence-building steps, including certain military arrangements, to ensure calm and prevent flare-ups in sensitive areas.
Keeping Foreign Armies Out
The agreement also includes a mutual promise that no third-party military forces will be stationed along their shared border — a move aimed at maintaining sovereignty and reducing outside influence in the region’s affairs.
Building Economic and Cultural Links
Looking beyond security, the document leaves room for future deals on trade, investment, and cultural exchanges.
This signals an intent to strengthen ties not just politically, but also economically and socially.
Respecting Sovereignty and Borders
The agreement reaffirms both nations’ recognition of each other’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence.
The borders in question are defined according to the Soviet-era maps, ensuring there is no ambiguity in their interpretation.
What Comes Next
If the presidents sign the agreement and the parliaments ratify it, the two countries will move forward with practical steps to finalize their border, maintain security, and build the trust necessary for a peaceful future in the South Caucasus.