Hakan Fidan emphasized Turkey’s peace efforts in South Caucasus and mediation in Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict.
Summary: Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan highlighted Turkey’s active role in promoting peace in the South Caucasus, particularly in the ongoing peace efforts between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Turkey will mediate a meeting between the foreign ministers of both countries in Istanbul as part of the “3+3” format. Fidan urged regional ownership in conflict resolution and emphasized the strong alliance between Turkey and Azerbaijan. He believes resolving the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict could lead to regional stability, cooperation, and economic prosperity.
In a recent statement, Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized Turkey’s active role in promoting lasting peace in the South Caucasus, highlighting the close coordination between Turkey and Azerbaijan. Fidan’s remarks came ahead of an important diplomatic meeting involving regional powers.
Speaking on the ongoing efforts for peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan, Fidan noted that Turkey has been deeply involved in the trilateral peace process. He revealed plans for an upcoming meeting between the foreign ministers of Azerbaijan and Armenia, with Turkey acting as a mediator. This meeting is part of the broader “3+3” format, which includes Turkey, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Russia, Iran, and Georgia. Fidan also mentioned that Turkey would host this significant meeting in Istanbul, although Georgia’s participation remains uncertain.
The Foreign Minister discussed the importance of “regional ownership” in resolving conflicts, a concept Turkey has been advocating for years. He explained that countries in conflict regions, such as the South Caucasus, must take the lead in resolving their own issues, rather than relying on external powers. Fidan warned that when hegemonic powers intervene, their interests often overshadow the priorities of the countries involved, citing the situation in Iraq as an example.
“Let the countries of the region come together, shoulder the responsibility, and address their problems,” Fidan urged. He emphasized that while external support can be sought, it should be qualified and limited to areas where it is genuinely needed.
Addressing the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict specifically, Fidan highlighted the strong alliance between Turkey and Azerbaijan, describing the two nations as “one state, two nations.” This close partnership extends to key institutions and the economy, with both countries sharing strategic priorities and working in seamless coordination. Fidan believes that a lasting peace with Armenia would pave the way for stability, prosperity, and development throughout the Caucasus.
“Our President is fully committed to supporting peace in the region,” Fidan said. He expressed optimism that resolving the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict could foster regional cooperation, drawing together nations like Georgia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Russia, Iran, and Turkey. This could create a new climate of development and economic prosperity for the entire region.
In conclusion, Fidan reaffirmed Turkey’s dedication to playing a leading role in achieving peace and stability in the South Caucasus. He stressed the importance of the upcoming diplomatic meetings, which could mark a turning point for regional cooperation and long-term peace.
