President Ilham Aliyev delivered his New Year address, reflecting on the significant accomplishments of 2024 while addressing pressing challenges in the South Caucasus.
The president highlighted what he described as Azerbaijan's diplomatic and political success in affirming new geopolitical realities in the region. However, he expressed concern about Armenia's actions, which could potentially destabilise the fragile peace that has been achieved.
"We affirmed these new realities diplomatically, internationally, and politically. The entire world has accepted these new realities. Therefore, Armenia's large-scale rearmament campaign, I believe, poses a new threat to the region. If we were to identify the most concerning issue for us this year, it would undoubtedly be Armenia's rearmament. There is no logical explanation for this," stated President.
In his address, President Aliyev strongly criticised what he referred to as Armenia's ongoing military build-up, warning that it could undermine peace efforts and escalate tensions in the region. He reminded the audience of the devastating consequences of past conflicts and urged Armenia to abandon what he termed a "dangerous path."
The president reiterated Azerbaijan's readiness to defend its sovereignty and prevent any possible threats to regional stability.
"Thus, I reiterate: while there is still time, they must turn back from this dangerous path. The South Caucasus must be a region of peace, tranquillity, and cooperation. Armenia's large-scale and rapid rearmament and the procurement of lethal weapons could undermine this peace, the possible peace. And I must emphasise that Azerbaijan will not merely act as a spectator regarding this matter. The 30 years of occupation, destruction, the devastation of Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur, the Khojaly genocide, and the displacement of one million of our people due to Armenia’s actions will never be erased from our memory. We will never forget this. Armenia’s aggressive policies and their nature must always be considered. Thus, once again, I find it necessary to issue another warning to Armenia's leadership: refrain from this dangerous path."
President Aliyev concluded his address by stating that despite numerous challenges and external pressures, the country has successfully restored its territorial integrity and strengthened its sovereignty.
The head of state shared an optimistic outlook for the future, encouraging unity and solidarity among Azerbaijanis while extending heartfelt holiday greetings to the nation and the diaspora.
"Azerbaijan has been advancing confidently, successfully, and with dignity. These years have not been without challenges, trials, and wars. There have been unfounded accusations against us, but none of these could divert us from our path. We have restored our territorial integrity, despite the wishes of global powers. We have restored our state sovereignty, once again defying the will of major powers, and we govern our country with confidence. Those who seek to hinder us will face failure once again," Aliyev said.
"Dear compatriots,
Today is the Day of Solidarity of World Azerbaijanis. I wholeheartedly congratulate all Azerbaijanis around the world on this occasion. I wish my dear people good health, prosperity, happiness, and success. Happy Holidays!"
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Monday 15th June, marks the fifth anniversary of the signing of the Shusha Declaration, a landmark agreement that formally elevated relations between Azerbaijan and Türkiye to the level of an alliance and further strengthened the long-standing ties between the two nations.
Start your day informed with the AnewZ Morning Brief. Here are the top stories for 15 June, covering the latest developments you need to know.
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Details of a reported draft memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran offer the clearest picture yet of how both sides plan to end months of conflict and move towards a longer-term settlement.
Pakistan has warned that any attempt by India to block or significantly reduce river flows under the Indus Waters Treaty could have “far-reaching consequences”, after India's water minister said New Delhi was working to ensure that “not a single drop” of water reaches Pakistan in the coming years.
Armenia has every right to choose Europe. But Europe’s support for Armenia’s direction should not become automatic approval of its political process.
The U.S. and Iran say they have reached a deal to end their conflict, with an immediate ceasefire and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz after the lifting of the U.S. naval blockade. Talks will continue over the next 60 days to finalise the agreement
U.S. President Donald Trump has said a peace agreement with Iran is scheduled to be signed on Sunday in a post on social media, despite Tehran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei saying no deal would be approved this weekend.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has told U.S. President Donald Trump that Israel does not consider itself bound by a Lebanon-related provision in an emerging agreement with Iran, according to Israeli officials.
Monday 15th June, marks the fifth anniversary of the signing of the Shusha Declaration, a landmark agreement that formally elevated relations between Azerbaijan and Türkiye to the level of an alliance and further strengthened the long-standing ties between the two nations.
Türkiye and Saudi Arabia are aiming to establish a railway connection linking the two countries through Syria and Jordan within the next three to four years, according to Turkish Transport Minister Abdulkadir Uraloğlu.
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