Abu dhabi: Italian President Sergio Mattarella has praised the decision to honor the historic peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia with the 2026 Zayed Award for Human Fraternity.
According to Emirates News Agency, in a written message conveyed by H.E. Lorenzo Fanara, Ambassador of the Italian Republic to the United Arab Emirates, President Mattarella lauded the Zayed Award's judging committee for selecting the peace agreement as an honoree. He reaffirmed Italy's steadfast support for the peace process between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia.
President Mattarella highlighted the perseverance and political commitment of both nations, which have laid the groundwork for improved relations after years of conflict. He expressed gratitude for the international community's role in the peace process, noting the significance of the trilateral summit held at the White House in August as a crucial step forward.
The Italian President also praised the determination of Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev and Armenia's Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in pursuing peace and reconciliation between their countries and people, describing their efforts as essential despite the challenges posed by past conflicts.
Honoring the peace agreement with the Zayed Award underscores the significant contributions made by both leaders toward the future peace agreement. President Mattarella expressed hope that this recognition would bring tangible benefits to Azerbaijan, Armenia, and the broader southern Caucasus region. He reiterated Italy's commitment to promoting harmony, stability, and development in the area.
Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, acknowledged President Mattarella's dedication to peace and human dignity and appreciated Italy's ongoing support for initiatives promoting human fraternity globally.
The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity held a ceremony in Abu Dhabi to honor the 2026 recipients, including the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace agreement, advocate for girls' education Zarqa Yaftali, and the Palestinian organization Taawon. The event was attended by H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, at the Founders' Memorial.