Azerbaijani FM: Progress in resolving the issue of missing persons can strengthen trust in the broader normalization process between Armenia and Azerbaijan

Article 9 of the Agreement on the Establishment of Peace and Interstate Relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan is dedicated to the issue of persons missing or subjected to enforced disappearance during the conflict.

This was stated by Azerbaijani Deputy Foreign Minister Fariz Rzayev at the 4th International Conference held as part of the Baku Dialogue on Missing Persons.

He noted that records related to captivity, movements, and cases of death, witness testimonies, and information on individual or mass burial sites are of great importance for establishing the fates of missing persons.

"Even incomplete information can be significant when studied alongside other evidence," Fariz Rzayev noted.

He stated that as part of cooperation with the International Commission on Missing Persons, the State Commission of Azerbaijan is working on the initial implementation of an Integrated Data Management System and a complementary Online Inquiries Center.

According to Fariz Rzayev, the system will allow existing information to be consolidated into a single database, enable authorized bodies to manage and cross-reference data, and securely share information regarding missing persons and burial sites.

He noted that the effectiveness of the system will depend on the quality of the data entered into it and the readiness of all relevant parties to share information known to them.

He stated that the document initialed in Washington provides for resolving these issues through the direct exchange of all available information or, if necessary, in cooperation with relevant international organizations.

"This provision creates a concrete basis for humanitarian cooperation. Regular contacts between relevant state agencies and their Armenian colleagues should help ensure that information is used to conduct searches, determine identities, and provide answers to families," Fariz Rzayev emphasized.

He added that progress on issues related to missing persons can also strengthen trust in the broader normalization process.

He noted that since November 2020, Azerbaijan has been carrying out search operations despite security challenges and the mine threat.

"As a result of this, the remains of over 2,000 Armenian servicemen have been handed over to the Armenian side," the Azerbaijani diplomat said.