Georgian expert: Azerbaijan to undoubtedly be leader in South Caucasus after Washington agreement

The military resolution of the Karabakh conflict did not automatically mean peace in the region; that's why the meeting between Azerbaijan and Armenia in Washington, the US, had been long awaited by both the region and the international community, a well-known Georgian expert, political commentator, and professor, Badri Nachkebia, told Report.

He noted that reaching mutual understanding between the countries—and the positive role played by the United States—is highly encouraging:

“I would say that, above all, this is the result of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev’s brilliant diplomacy. His wise leadership has shown that, despite numerous factors threatening to derail negotiations, major successes are still achievable.”

Nachkebia believes that in the near future, not only will a strong and lasting peace emerge, but also a new phase of development and prosperity for the region:

“I hope the first steps will become visible soon after the agreement is signed. The key is to keep the process moving forward, because it’s highly likely that a new union will form in the South Caucasus—and Azerbaijan will undoubtedly be its leader. Over time, the region could become one of the most dynamic power centers at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.”