Yerevan, Armenia – Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian offered a glimmer of hope for lasting peace in the South Caucasus, suggesting the 3+3 regional format involving Iran, Russia, and Turkey could pave the way for a settlement between Azerbaijan and Armenia as early as next year.
“Stable peace can be achieved in the first months of 2024,” Amir-Abdollahian declared at a joint press conference with his Armenian counterpart Ararat Mirzoyan in Yerevan on Wednesday. He expressed confidence that “positive sentiments in the region” could be harnessed to reach a lasting agreement without external interference, facilitated by the three mediating powers.
Mirzoyan acknowledged the progress, confirming that Armenia had received a fresh batch of proposals from Baku towards a peace deal and would offer its response in due time. He cautiously acknowledged a “window of opportunity” for peace with Azerbaijan but emphasized its dependence on factors including Baku’s continued constructive engagement.
The 3+3 format, proposed by Azerbaijan and Turkey in late 2020, brings together regional stakeholders in Iran, Russia, and Turkey in an effort to foster dialogue and stability in the volatile South Caucasus. While Armenia initially expressed reservations, it ultimately joined the platform, offering a glimmer of hope for regional cooperation.
Despite the optimism, challenges remain. Georgia, another key player in the region, has opted out of the format, and long-standing grievances and mistrust between Baku and Yerevan persist. Yet, Amir-Abdollahian’s remarks and Armenia’s receptiveness to new proposals suggest a potential shift towards diplomacy and compromise.