Azerbaijani initiative group "Bridge of Peace": Diplomats' visit to Karabakh should not become a subject of dispute

The Azerbaijani group of the “Peace Bridge” Initiative expresses its deep disappointment with the hostile media reaction and the unacceptable tone of public discourse in Armenia surrounding the visit of the diplomatic corps to the Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur regions of the Republic of Azerbaijan on September 11–12, 2026. 

First of foremost, a visit by the diplomatic corps to the sovereign territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan should not, in itself, be a matter of controversy. In particular, verbal attacks directed against ambassadors and countries for participating in such a visit are disturbing and are in contradiction with Armenia’s recognition of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan and Armenia are now in a post-conflict period, and both countries face the difficult task of overcoming decades of confrontation. As part of peace initiatives, we, as representatives of civil society, with the support of the governments of Azerbaijan and Armenia, are taking steps to support the peace process, encourage dialogue, and contribute to confidence-building measures.

Cultural heritage in the territory of Republic of Azerbaijan belongs to the Azerbaijani people and is protected by the state. 

To ensure fairness, cultural heritage should be discussed on the basis of reciprocity and open dialogue. To advance these goals, representatives of civil society have initiated a platform for professional discussion of issues that form an integral part of the peace agenda between Azerbaijan and Armenia. 

The peace process must not be allowed to come under pressure from revanchist forces, as this would seriously jeopardize further progress toward peace. We invite the Armenian society to take a prudent approach to this end and not to fuel the malign agenda of those in Armenia and beyond.

Farhad Mammadov
Kamala Mammadova
Rusif Huseynov
Dilara Afandiyeva
Ramil Iskenderli