ISTANBUL 

Kazakhstan on Friday welcomed the conclusion of negotiations on a draft peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia, emphasizing its significance in stabilizing relations and fostering long-term peace in the South Caucasus.

In a statement, the Kazakh Foreign Ministry commended the diplomatic efforts of the Azerbaijani and Armenian foreign ministries in finalizing discussions on the agreement for peace and inter-state relations.

“We express confidence that the agreements reached and the signing of this historic document will be a crucial step in normalizing relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia, while also contributing to the stability, security, and prosperity of the entire South Caucasus region,” the statement said.

Kazakhstan reaffirmed its unwavering support for ongoing constructive dialogue between the two nations, stressing the importance of sustained diplomatic engagement in achieving a durable peace.

Relations between the two former Soviet republics have been tense since 1991, when the Armenian military occupied Karabakh – a territory internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan – and seven adjacent regions.

Most of the territory was liberated by Azerbaijan during a 44-day war in the fall of 2020, which ended after a Russian-brokered peace agreement that opened the door to normalization and demarcation talks.

In September 2023, Azerbaijan established full sovereignty in Karabakh after separatist forces in the region surrendered.