Armenian Parliament Speaker Alen Simonyan has positively assessed his meeting with his Azerbaijani counterpart, Sahiba Gafarova, held in Istanbul on April 17, noting a significant lack of disagreement between the two parties regarding future cooperation.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, Simonyan shared these insights during an interview with Azerbaijan's Real TV. "The meeting with Sahiba Gafarova went well. We had no disagreements. You might be surprised, but there is a mutual understanding and plans for future collaboration. We face no obstacles during our discussions, and I hope none will arise," Simonyan stated.
Addressing the potential for establishing trade and economic ties between Baku and Yerevan, Simonyan emphasized the necessity of developing bilateral commerce. "I have been advocating for this for a long time: we must trade. I believe we should expand this cooperation. As far as I know, entrepreneurs, governments, and relevant structures are already working in this direction, which is very positive. It is essential to continue and deepen this work for the benefit of both countries," he added. Simonyan also spoke favorably regarding the prospect of reciprocal visits by representatives of civil society from both Azerbaijan and Armenia.
The meeting takes place against the backdrop of ongoing efforts to normalize relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia following the restoration of Azerbaijan's sovereignty over its internationally recognized territories. High-level parliamentary dialogues are seen as a crucial component of the broader peace process, aimed at fostering regional stability and unblocking transport and economic communications in the South Caucasus. Such diplomatic engagements are intended to build confidence and pave the way for a comprehensive peace treaty between the two nations.
