**Peace Breakthrough: Armenia and Azerbaijan Sign Historic Deal**
In a significant development, the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan have signed a joint declaration for peace and bilateral economic agreements with the United States. The ceremony was hosted by US President Donald Trump at the White House on August 8.
For decades, the two nations have been locked in a bitter conflict over the Nagorno-Karabakh region. The dispute has resulted in tremendous suffering for both nations, with two wars being fought between them. However, following Trump’s mediation efforts, the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan have finally found common ground.
The “peace roadmap” joint declaration signed by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev alongside Trump marks a significant milestone in their relations. The deal is expected to create a transportation corridor between the two countries, connecting Azerbaijan to its Nakhchivan exclave located west of southern Armenia.
**The Road to Peace**
Armenia and Azerbaijan have fought over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh enclave for more than 35 years. The conflict has resulted in the displacement of hundreds of thousands of ethnic Armenians from the region. However, with Trump’s personal engagement and commitment to peace, the two nations have finally found a way forward.
According to Pashinyan, the breakthrough would not have been possible without Trump’s efforts. “Today, we have reached a significant milestone in Armenian and Azerbaijani relations,” he said. “We are laying a foundation to write a better story than the one we had in the past.”
**Bilateral Economic Agreements**
The peace deal also includes bilateral economic agreements that will promote cooperation between Armenia, Azerbaijan, and the US. The agreements aim to increase trade, transit, energy infrastructure, and technology exchange.
“The countries of Armenia and Azerbaijan are committing to stop all fighting forever; open up commerce, travel, and diplomatic relations; and respect each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Trump said.
**Nobel Peace Prize Nomination**
Following the signing of the peace deal, both Aliyev and Pashinyan are expected to nominate Trump for a Nobel Peace Prize. The US leader has previously expressed that his mediation efforts in various conflicts deserve the Nobel Peace Prize.
In conclusion, the historic peace deal signed by Armenia and Azerbaijan is a significant breakthrough in their relations. With the creation of a transportation corridor and bilateral economic agreements, the two nations are expected to open up new avenues for cooperation and trade with the US.
As we look forward to this new chapter in Armenian-Azerbaijani relations, it’s essential to remember that peacebuilding is often a long-term process that requires sustained efforts from all parties involved. The success of this deal will depend on the ability of Armenia and Azerbaijan to translate their commitment to peace into tangible actions on the ground.
**What This Means**
The signing of the peace deal has significant implications for the region. By creating a transportation corridor, Armenia and Azerbaijan are opening up new economic opportunities for themselves and the wider region. The bilateral economic agreements will also promote cooperation in trade, transit, energy infrastructure, and technology exchange.
Moreover, the nomination of Trump for a Nobel Peace Prize highlights the significance of his mediation efforts in this conflict. While some may question the timing and motivations behind this move, it’s undeniable that Trump’s involvement has helped bring about a resolution to this long-standing dispute.
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