Armenia and Azerbaijan Sign Peace Agreement in Washington, Establishing New Transit Corridor

Armenia and Azerbaijan have signed a preliminary peace agreement in Washington, aiming to end decades of conflict and establish a new transit corridor through southern Armenia. The agreement was signed by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, with U.S. President Donald Trump hosting the ceremony.

The deal includes the development of the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP), a strategic corridor connecting Azerbaijan with its Nakhchivan exclave via southern Armenia. The U.S. will have exclusive development rights over this corridor, which is expected to enhance regional connectivity and economic cooperation.

In addition to the transit corridor, the agreement encompasses U.S. partnerships with both nations in areas such as energy, technology, border security, infrastructure, and trade. This initiative is seen as a significant step toward resolving longstanding tensions in the South Caucasus region.

The peace agreement also includes a request to dissolve the OSCE's Minsk Group, signaling a shift from conflict management to regional peace. This move reflects a change in diplomatic dynamics, with the U.S. playing a more prominent role in the region.

While the agreement marks a significant diplomatic achievement, challenges remain, including addressing the status of Nagorno-Karabakh and other unresolved issues. However, the establishment of the TRIPP corridor and the commitment to economic cooperation are viewed as positive steps toward lasting peace and prosperity in the region.