UAE Facilitates Historic Peace Talks Between Azerbaijan and Armenia in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, UAE – Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev convened in Abu Dhabi on July 10, 2025, for critical discussions aimed at finalizing a comprehensive peace agreement. The high-level meeting, hosted and facilitated by the United Arab Emirates, marks a significant step towards resolving the decades-long conflict between the two South Caucasus nations. This direct engagement, the first formal bilateral encounter since a draft peace deal was agreed upon in March, underscores the UAE's growing role as a neutral mediator in international diplomacy.

The leaders' meeting focused on key issues, including border delimitation, the opening of the Zangezur Corridor, and the overall framework of the peace treaty. Both sides reaffirmed that bilateral negotiations are the most effective format for addressing all aspects of the normalization process. The discussions also touched upon confidence-building measures between the former adversaries.

The UAE's President, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (MBZ), welcomed both leaders, emphasizing the country's commitment to fostering dialogue and stability. According to a social media post by Amjad Taha, "MBZ, our beloved president, welcomed both leaders and expressed his appreciation for their decision to meet in the UAE, underscoring the international community’s confidence in the country as a trusted advocate for peace, diplomatic solutions, multilateral cooperation, and regional stability." This sentiment highlights the UAE's strategic positioning as a trusted third party.

The conflict, primarily centered around the Nagorno-Karabakh region, has spanned nearly four decades. Azerbaijan regained full control of the region in September 2023, leading to an exodus of its Armenian population and prompting renewed efforts for a lasting peace. The Abu Dhabi talks are seen as particularly significant due to the absence of traditional mediators like Russia, reflecting a shift in regional dynamics and a desire by both Armenia and Azerbaijan to pursue a peace process independently.

While no immediate breakthrough was announced, both sides committed to continuing direct negotiations. The meeting also followed a separate economic partnership agreement signed between the UAE and Azerbaijan, further solidifying the host nation's ties with the region. The international community, including the European Union and the United States, has expressed strong support for the ongoing normalization efforts, viewing the Abu Dhabi talks as a crucial stride towards enduring peace in the South Caucasus.