Prague Process Begins: New Framework for Nagorno-Karabakh Negotiations

Armenia and Azerbaijan have initiated a new round of negotiations under what diplomats are calling the “Prague Process,” a framework developed by the OSCE Minsk Group to address the frozen conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh.

Key Elements of the Prague Process

The new diplomatic framework introduces several innovative approaches:

Phased Resolution: A step-by-step approach to addressing territorial and political issues
Security Guarantees: Enhanced mechanisms for ensuring ceasefire compliance
Economic Incentives: Proposals for regional economic cooperation
International Monitoring: Expanded role for OSCE observers

Initial Positions

Armenian Stance

Insistence on self-determination for Nagorno-Karabakh
Security guarantees for Armenian population
Maintaining land corridor to Armenia

Azerbaijani Position

Full restoration of territorial integrity
Return of displaced persons
Economic compensation for occupation period

International Mediation

The OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs (Russia, United States, France) have expressed cautious optimism about the new format:

“The Prague Process represents our most comprehensive attempt yet to bridge the gap between the parties,” stated a senior diplomat involved in the negotiations.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the new framework, significant obstacles remain:

Deep mistrust between the parties
Domestic political pressures in both countries
Status of occupied territories
Future of Nagorno-Karabakh’s governance

Regional Implications

The success or failure of the Prague Process could have far-reaching consequences for:

Regional stability in the South Caucasus
Energy transportation routes
Russia’s role as regional mediator
Western engagement in the region

As negotiations continue, both sides have committed to maintaining the ceasefire while exploring diplomatic solutions under this new framework.