AZERTAC presents an interview with Italian political scientist Salvatore Santagelo.

- How do you assess the results of the Washington summit for Azerbaijan and Armenia? Can we say that this process has consolidated Azerbaijan's role as a leading player in the South Caucasus?

- The Washington summit represents a significant advancement in the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia. It has indeed consolidated Azerbaijan's role as a leading player in the South Caucasus, reflecting its dominance in energy, military affairs, and geopolitical influence. The summit's outcomes, including the establishment of a Strategic Working Group and the U.S. commitment to support regional stability, underscore Azerbaijan's centrality in the evolving dynamics of the region.

- To what extent has this summit become a turning point for the entire region, including Armenia and other neighbors?

- This summit marks a pivotal moment not only for Azerbaijan and Armenia but for the entire South Caucasus region. By facilitating direct dialogue and cooperation, the summit has the potential to shift long-standing hostilities and foster regional stability. Neighboring countries, including Georgia and Iran, will likely re-evaluate their positions and strategies in light of the newly emerging partnerships and trade opportunities.

- The Zangezur Corridor is called the "road of opportunity." What advantages does it offer for Azerbaijan and Armenia?

- The Zangezur Corridor presents several advantages for both Azerbaijan and Armenia. It enhances trade connectivity, stimulates economic growth by facilitating easier access to markets, fosters cultural exchange, and improves strategic positioning. For Azerbaijan, it expands its regional influence, while for Armenia, it opens new economic avenues.

- Can this route be viewed as a platform for cooperation where everyone benefits - Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Europe?

- Yes, the Zangezur Corridor can indeed serve as a platform for cooperation from which all parties can benefit. Azerbaijan gains increased access to European markets, Armenia receives economic opportunities, and Europe enhances its energy security and economic ties in the region. Collaborative management of this corridor could lead to joint ventures and mutual benefits.

- What is the significance of the Zangezur Corridor for other regional players - Türkiye, Iran, and Russia?

- For Türkiye, the corridor strengthens ties with Azerbaijan and enhances its influence in the Caucasus. For Iran, it could provide alternative trade routes to Europe, positively impacting its regional strategy. For Russia, while it maintains a foothold in the region, diminishing influence requires adaptation, focusing on strategic partnerships to retain relevance.

- Can the successful implementation of the agreements in Washington become the basis for sustainable peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia? How do you think the political map of the South Caucasus will change if Baku and Yerevan can build long-term cooperation?

- The successful implementation of agreements from the Washington summit has the potential to pave the way for sustainable peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia. If Baku and Yerevan establish long-term cooperation, the political map of the South Caucasus would likely shift towards a more integrated and collaborative environment, reducing tensions and creating opportunities for joint development projects.

- How do you see the role of Azerbaijan as a "bridge" not only between Europe and Asia, but also within the South Caucasus itself?

- Azerbaijan's role as a "bridge" positions it uniquely not just between Europe and Asia, but also within the South Caucasus itself. This strategic positioning facilitates dialogue, trade, and cultural exchanges, enhancing its influence and fostering regional interconnectedness, which can promote stability and growth.

- Europe actively supports Azerbaijan's transport and energy initiatives. What role can the EU play in making the Zangezur Corridor a common benefit for the entire region, including Armenia?

- The EU can play a crucial role in making the Zangezur Corridor a common benefit by facilitating investments, providing technical support, and encouraging multilateral dialogues that include Armenia. By promoting inclusive projects, the EU can help ensure that the corridor serves as a platform for regional development and cooperation.

- Can we expect that the successful launch of this project will attract the attention of other international players to the South Caucasus?

- The successful launch of the Zangezur Corridor and broader peace initiatives could indeed attract the attention of other international players to the South Caucasus. As the region stabilizes and economic opportunities expand, nations like the U.S., EU member states, and even Asian countries may seek to invest and engage, reinforcing the region's importance in global geopolitics and economics.