Meanwhile, Azerbaijan released two truck drivers whose arrest sparked the tensions, while Iran agreed to forbid trucks from entering Karabakh from now on.
The government is heavily publicizing the concept, which could increase the economic efficiency of rural communities but also place them under greater central control.
The government had been silent since the investigation into massive corruption was released. Now Ilham Aliyev says “some forces in the West” are behind it.
The two foreign ministers also discussed how to resolve transportation issues that have become complicated by the new post-war order in southern Armenia.
The two adversaries have been choosing not to use one another’s air space. Now Armenians are asking why their government is allowing Azerbaijani overflights.
In spite of ascendant political ties between the two allies, the apparent temporary nature of the new agreement speaks to their differing economic priorities.
A case filed by Armenia against Azerbaijan in the International Court of Justice could have significant implications for the conflict. And it carries risks for both Armenia and Azerbaijan.
The Azerbaijani government has been undertaking a campaign against corrupt officials for nearly two years now, but in a series of recent hearings the accused say they have been set up.
The move appears to be part of a steadily increasing effort by Baku to exert control over the road in southern Armenia that passes through pockets of Azerbaijan-controlled territory.
Unlike the last time the two sides explored restoring ties, Azerbaijan doesn’t seem to be trying to play the spoiler. But questions remain about Russia’s involvement in the process.
Ground was broken for the Fuzuli airport only in January, and it now has hosted its first passenger and cargo flights. But some wonder if the government’s enthusiasm for airports isn’t excessive.
Both societies quickly moved to help soldiers and civilians suffering with post-traumatic stress, but there are too few specialists in the region to adequately address all the needs.