Canada reaffirms importance of resolving outstanding issues in Armenia–Azerbaijan peace process during Anand–Bayramov Call

(Horizon Media / OTTAWA) — Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand and Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov held a telephone conversation on June 2, discussing bilateral relations, regional developments, and the ongoing Armenia–Azerbaijan peace process.

In a statement posted on X following the call, Anand said the two ministers discussed strengthening Canada–Azerbaijan relations and expanding cooperation in trade and investment. She also noted that they exchanged views on developments in the South Caucasus and emphasized “the importance of a durable long-term peace, including the resolution of outstanding issues.”

While Anand did not elaborate on what those outstanding issues entail, Canada’s most recent public position on the Armenia–Azerbaijan conflict suggests they include several unresolved humanitarian and political concerns arising from the conflict, including the release of Armenian detainees and prisoners of war held in Azerbaijan, the safe and dignified right of return of displaced Armenians from Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), and the protection of Armenian cultural and religious heritage.

Canada last articulated its position on August 10, 2025, following the initialling of the Armenia–Azerbaijan peace agreement in Washington. At the time, Anand stated that such agreements “provide a clear path toward a comprehensive peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan that will help to address the remaining issues.”

Significantly, Canada also reaffirmed its commitment to principles that have long underpinned its approach to the conflict, noting that while it takes note of the dissolution of the OSCE Minsk Group, it remains committed to supporting future mechanisms that uphold “the principles of the non-use of force and the respect of territorial integrity and the right for self-determination.” Canada further reiterated its support for “a negotiated political solution to the Nagorno-Karabakh issue.”

According to a statement issued by Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the June 2 call also focused on the development of Azerbaijani–Canadian relations and opportunities for cooperation in areas such as renewable energy, green transition initiatives, information and communication technologies, and energy security.

The Azerbaijani readout stated that Bayramov briefed Anand on what Baku described as the history and consequences of the Armenia–Azerbaijan conflict, the realities of the post-conflict period, and Azerbaijan’s efforts to advance normalization and peace negotiations with Armenia.

The two ministers also exchanged views on broader regional developments and other issues of mutual interest.

The conversation comes as negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan continue, with key issues such as hostages, the rights of displaced Armenians, and cultural heritage protection remaining unresolved.