A panel discussion titled “The Armenia–Azerbaijan Peace Process: From Frozen Conflict to ‘Hot Peace’” was held in Budapest, hosted by the Magyar Külügyi Intézet / Hungarian Institute of International Affairs (HIIA).

The discussion featured Johnny Melikyan, Senior Fellow of the Orbeli Center, alongside regional experts Rusif Huseynov, Péter Pál Kránitz, and Sándor Seremet. The panel was moderated by Mariam Kebabdze.

The discussion focused on the current stage of the Armenia–Azerbaijan negotiations, the key drivers shaping the peace process, and the political and security challenges that continue to influence the regional environment. Participants reviewed the state of the negotiations in light of the August 2025 Washington declaration, examined the reasons behind the delay in signing and ratifying a final peace treaty, as well as the main challenges facing the parties

Special attention was given to emerging regional initiatives, including the potential impact of the TRIPP / so-called “Trump Route”, the evolution of Armenia–EU relations, and the changing role of external actors—particularly Russia—in the South Caucasus. The panel also explored prospects for economic cooperation, the lifting of restrictions on the movement of goods, and the benefits and risks associated with the unblocking of regional connectivity.

As part of the visit, Johnny Melikyan also met with Péter Tamás Baranyi, Strategic Director of HIIA. The meeting focused on opportunities to deepen cooperation between the Orbeli Center and HIIA, including potential joint initiatives and expert-level engagement planned for 2026.

The discussion once again underscored the importance of expert dialogue platforms in fostering informed debate on peace, regional stability, and long-term cooperation in the South Caucasus.