Aliyev Calls for Azerbaijani Return to Historical Lands
President Ilham Aliyev stated that Azerbaijanis "must return to our historical lands," referring to territories in present-day Armenia. He emphasized this return should happen "not with tanks, but in cars," aiming to avoid intimidation of Armenia’s people or state.
Context and Reactions
Aliyev’s remarks marked a shift from previous rhetoric by stressing a peaceful return. Yet, some comments have angered Armenians, who interpreted them as territorial claims.
"The return should be not with tanks, but in cars."
"The prospect should not intimidate the people or state of Armenia."
Historical Background
Aliyev suggested further research on facilitating the return of Azerbaijanis to areas in modern Armenia that they formerly inhabited before the ethnic cleansing and population exchanges during the First Nagorno-Karabakh War.
Additional Notes
- The speech included remarks sensitive to the region’s complex history.
- Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's comments were added in an update to this article.
- Independent reporting continues to monitor human rights and democratic issues in the broader Caucasus region.
Author’s summary: Aliyev advocates a peaceful return of Azerbaijanis to historic lands in Armenia, signaling a shift towards less aggressive rhetoric while sparking concerns of territorial claims.