The issue of the return of Western Azerbaijanis to their ancestral lands should form part of discussions within the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace process, as achieving a lasting and sustainable peace in the region would be difficult without addressing this right, Chairman of the Western Azerbaijan Community Aziz Alakbarli said on the margins of the event titled “Return to Western Azerbaijan: Restoration of Historical Justice and Human Rights.”
Speaking to journalists, Alakbarli said the Western Azerbaijan Community seeks to draw the international community's attention not only to the most recent phase of deportations but also to the hardships endured by Azerbaijanis over the past two centuries while living on their historical lands, as well as to what he described as the historical truth about Western Azerbaijan, Caliber.Az reports per local media.
“Relying on international law, the Community calls on international organizations and the global community to recognize and ensure the rights of these people. Today, Azerbaijan and Armenia are engaged in peace negotiations. We believe that the issue of the return of refugees from Western Azerbaijan to their native lands should also be clarified within the framework of these talks,” Alakbarli said.
He stressed that ensuring the coexistence of peoples is one of the key foundations for lasting peace.
“The Armenian leadership must understand that it is necessary to take into account the new realities that have emerged in the region. The Western Azerbaijan Community advocates peace, security, and regional cooperation. We support the peace negotiations between Azerbaijan and Armenia. At the same time, we believe that the Armenian leadership should recognize the right of Western Azerbaijanis to return to their homes and should not obstruct this process,” he added.
According to Alakbarli, incorporating the issue into the broader peace agenda would contribute to efforts aimed at achieving long-term stability, reconciliation, and cooperation in the South Caucasus.
By Vafa Guliyeva
