Armenia

On January 1, 2025, Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan delivered a New Year’s message highlighting the importance of strengthening national security amid internal and external challenges. He emphasized that national consolidation and a clear strategy are necessary for the country’s development and the strengthening of Armenia's position internationally. Khachaturyan noted that Armenia requires responsible and professional specialists in all sectors to achieve its goals and stressed the need to assess the country's real possibilities while directing efforts toward statehood and security. He expressed hope that 2025 would be a year of reinforcing Armenia’s statehood and achieving new milestones.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, in his message, elaborated on the ideology of the Real Armenia, which he linked to the Peace Agenda. Pashinyan emphasized that the success of the Peace Agenda depends not only on the government but also on the people. Reflecting on the peaceful revolution of 2018, Pashinyan drew parallels between that moment and the current peace efforts, suggesting that while the situation differs, focusing on internal efforts remains vital. He highlighted the significance of the delimitation process in the Berkaber-Kirants-Voskepar section as a cornerstone for Armenia's security and independence, despite criticism. Pashinyan acknowledged the difficulties many Armenians face but reassured the public that solutions would be found.

Pashinyan continued by stressing the importance of the Real Armenia ideology, which he defined as a guiding principle for every citizen. He asserted that the state's role is to ensure its citizens' security, well-being, and happiness while preserving and developing their identity. He explained that the path to achieving these goals lies in education and work, which will foster transformation and progress. Reflecting on his seventh New Year's address as Prime Minister, Pashinyan expressed confidence in the ideology of the Real Armenia, which he believes will lead Armenia toward greater stability, sovereignty, and security.

Pashinyan concluded by highlighting the significant progress made in 2024, noting that it was the most peaceful and calm year for Armenia in the past two decades. He urged the nation to continue along this path of peace and transformation, emphasizing the need for a long-term commitment to peace and stability in Armenia's future.

Azerbaijan

During his address on the Day of Solidarity of World Azerbaijanis and the New Year, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev highlighted the "new realities" established in the South Caucasus following the Patriotic War and the restoration of Azerbaijan's sovereignty. He stated that these realities had been affirmed on diplomatic, international, and political levels, gaining worldwide recognition.

President Aliyev criticized Armenia's large-scale armament campaign, labeling it a significant threat to regional peace and cooperation. He noted that Armenia's militarization lacks logical justification given its historical failures, including the loss of occupied territories. Aliyev stressed that Azerbaijan would not remain passive, recalling the destruction, displacement, and suffering caused by Armenia over 30 years. He warned Armenia's leadership against continuing its "dangerous path," asserting that Armenia could not compete with Azerbaijan militarily or otherwise.

In response to Armenia's actions, Aliyev announced a record increase in Azerbaijan's military budget for the upcoming year, reaching 8.4 billion manats, to counter the perceived arms race initiated by Armenia. He also criticized Western nations and affiliated organizations for their alleged bias against Azerbaijan, particularly during COP29, and expressed hope that such discriminatory campaigns would end by January 2025.

Georgia

President Salome Zourabichvili joined the celebration and emphasized national unity in a televised New Year's address. She celebrated Georgia's achievements in 2024, including EU candidate status, sports victories, and resilience amid challenges such as controversial Russian-style laws and repressions.

Zourabichvili stated, "Unity will save us, as it did centuries ago," pointing to the symbolic "supra" and traditional Georgian songs as embodiments of national solidarity. She also lauded dismissed civil servants for prioritizing freedom and love for the country, asserting that their dedication exemplifies the strength of the Georgian state.

Irakli Kobakhidze, the Prime Minister of Georgia, reflected on 2024 as a year of challenges and victories, highlighting Georgia’s triumph in the October referendum and the nation’s ongoing fight for independence, peace, and a European future. He thanked citizens across various sectors, soldiers, and religious leaders for their contributions to Georgia’s progress and cultural preservation. Kobakhidze celebrated Georgia’s economic advancements and unprecedented sports successes, underscoring the nation’s resilience and collective spirit.