Khankendi: Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev called on Ukrainians to stand firm against occupation during a meeting with participants of the Third Shusha Global Media Forum. Aliyev emphasized Azerbaijan's experience of not accepting the nearly 30-year occupation of its Karabakh region, which was ultimately liberated despite challenges.
According to Anadolu Agency, Aliyev criticized the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe's (OSCE) Minsk Group for maintaining the status quo during the Karabakh conflict rather than resolving it. He noted that Azerbaijan rejected the group's advice to accept the occupation and instead created a new reality during the second Karabakh war in 2020, which led to the full liberation of Karabakh in 2023. He urged Ukrainians to follow a similar path and not surrender their territorial integrity amidst the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
Aliyev also addressed the Zangezur corridor, highlighting its strategic importance for uniting Azerbaijan's territories and enhancing regional transportation. He stated Azerbaijan is actively constructing the railway up to the borders with Armenia and Iran and criticized Armenia for not progressing on their section. Aliyev warned that Armenia's obstruction could lead to its isolation both politically and in terms of transportation.
In response to a question about the US proposal to manage the corridor, Aliyev dismissed the idea, emphasizing Azerbaijan's sovereignty over the land. He reiterated the importance of securing passage to the Nakhchivan exclave and noted his discussions with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. Aliyev also commented on the EU Mission in Armenia, accusing them of espionage activities.
Regarding the Azerbaijan-Armenia peace deal, Aliyev stated that Armenia was initially hesitant to accept certain articles of the draft agreement. However, they eventually agreed following US President Donald Trump's re-election. Aliyev expressed optimism about the signing of the deal, which he believes will bring peace and stability to the South Caucasus.
Aliyev also addressed the Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) plane crash last December, criticizing Russia for not providing an official response. He demanded accountability from Russia, including punishment for those responsible and compensation for the victims' families and the damaged aircraft. Aliyev warned of pursuing international justice if Russia fails to respond appropriately. The crash occurred near Aktau, Kazakhstan, killing 38 people, and President Vladimir Putin had acknowledged the incident, offering condolences and apologies.