Azerbaijan and Armenia Leaders Meet for Direct TalksCEFR B1
17 Jul 2025
Adapted from Arzu Geybullayeva, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Zulfugar Karimov, Unsplash
AI-assisted adaptation of the original article, simplified for language learners.
The recent meeting between Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev and Armenia's Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in Abu Dhabi marks a significant shift. It is the first direct engagement without outside mediation, which emphasizes a new approach to their long-standing conflict. Both leaders recognize that direct negotiations are essential for resolving issues related to the peace process, particularly concerning the Zangezur Corridor, a vital link for transportation and trade.
Key concerns remain regarding the control and naming of the corridor. Azerbaijan and Armenia both have strong positions that complicate these discussions. The corridor is crucial not only for trade but also for enhancing ties between neighboring regions.
Despite the promising signs from this meeting, both leaders must navigate complex domestic pressures and regional dynamics while ensuring that external influences do not derail their progress. The international community will closely watch this evolving situation as it can significantly impact regional stability.
Difficult words
- engagement — a meeting or connection between people.
- negotiations — talks to reach an agreement.
- corridor — a narrow route or passage.
- vital — very important or necessary.
- complicate — make something more difficult.
- navigate — to find a way through something.
- influences — things that affect decisions or thoughts.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What do you think is the importance of direct engagement in conflicts?
- How can external influences affect negotiations?
- What do you believe is necessary for successful negotiations between countries?
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