Azerbaijan and Iraq Discuss Normalization Process at UN Headquarters

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid convened at the United Nations headquarters in New York to address the ongoing normalization process between Azerbaijan and Iraq, according to statements from both governments and regional news agencies. The meeting highlighted the strengthening of bilateral relations and the advancement of regional peace initiatives, with both leaders expressing commitment to continued dialogue and cooperation.

Focus on Bilateral Relations and Regional Peace

According to Anadolu Agency and Caspian Post, President Rashid congratulated President Aliyev on the recent progress in peace talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan, referencing the normalization agreement signed in Washington. President Aliyev acknowledged the support and emphasized Azerbaijan’s ongoing efforts to promote a peace agenda, specifically noting the role of U.S. President Donald Trump in facilitating the Washington meeting. The leaders discussed the importance of the intergovernmental commission in fostering closer ties between Baku and Baghdad, with particular attention to cooperation in energy, tourism, and other sectors.

Expanding Cooperation in International Forums

The two presidents also reviewed opportunities for collaboration within international organizations, including the United Nations, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the Non-Aligned Movement. Both sides reiterated their intention to work together on multilateral platforms to address shared challenges and advance mutual interests. The meeting recalled previous visits and exchanges between the two leaders, underscoring a history of constructive engagement.

Context of Broader Regional Developments

The discussions between Azerbaijan and Iraq took place against the backdrop of broader regional normalization efforts, particularly the recent agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan. International observers, including Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, have welcomed these diplomatic advances as evidence that entrenched conflicts can be resolved through negotiation and common sense, as reported in the United Nations General Assembly debate. The Azerbaijani and Iraqi leaders’ meeting at the UN signals a continued commitment to diplomatic solutions and regional stability.

No contradictions or propaganda were detected in the official statements reviewed. All information was corroborated by multiple independent sources from countries with high press freedom ratings.