In a significant tribute to global peace initiatives, Italian President Sergio Mattarella lauded the selection of the historic peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia for the prestigious Zayed Award for Human Fraternity. This accolade, to be awarded in 2026, highlights Italy’s robust support for peace efforts in the region, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy and mutual recognition in fostering long-lasting harmony.
President Mattarella expressed his sentiments in a message read on his behalf by Lorenzo Fanara, the Italian Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates. He stated, “The perseverance and political commitment of the leaders we honor have enabled the foundation of a new phase in relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia, following decades of bitter and at times bloody confrontations.” He acknowledged the vital role of the international community in supporting this peace endeavor and highlighted the recent tripartite summit held in August at the White House as a testament to this backing, leading to significant advancements in negotiations.
In his address, the president emphasized that the “determination and vision” displayed by President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan and Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of Armenia in their quest to enhance peace and reconciliation not only benefited the two nations but also contributed to fostering a calmer relationship between their peoples. He deemed this journey as “not an easy path, but essential after decades of suffering.”
Moreover, the recognition of the peace agreement through the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity serves as an additional testament to the crucial contributions made by both parties in paving the way for the future signing of a peace treaty between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Mattarella expressed hope that this acknowledgment would serve as “an entry point for tangible benefits for both countries and the entire South Caucasus region.”
The Italian president reiterated Italy’s unwavering commitment to fostering harmony, stability, and development in the region, promising continued “active and tangible support” for achieving these aims. In response, Mohammed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, extended his gratitude to President Mattarella for his steadfast commitment to the values of peace, dialogue, and human dignity. He praised Italy’s ongoing support for the award and the initiatives promoting human fraternity on both regional and global levels.
The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity has held official ceremonies to honor its laureates, with the recent event hosted by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, at the Founder’s Memorial in Abu Dhabi. The historic peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia was celebrated alongside other commendable causes, including Zainab Yeftali’s advocacy for girls’ education in Afghanistan and the “Cooperation” Palestinian organization.