Merz backs Armenia-Azerbaijan peace deal, sees historic opportunity
Speaking at a joint news conference with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in Berlin, Merz emphasized that Germany will encourage closer collaboration between the EU, Armenia, and Azerbaijan, highlighting opportunities in energy, trade, and other sectors.
"The peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan is a sign of hope for peace and prosperity in this world and the South Caucasus region, and it sends an important, positive signal far beyond the region," Merz said. He added, “From our perspective, it is now crucial that Armenia and Azerbaijan continue to take the remaining steps together and peacefully, and that the outstanding issues can be resolved amicably,” stressing Germany’s ongoing support for both countries.
Merz also noted Armenia’s strategic role in trade routes connecting Europe and Asia and pointed out that German companies are interested in investing in the country. He affirmed support for Pashinyan’s vision for Armenia, which includes democratic and economic reforms and efforts to maintain peaceful relations with neighboring states.
The German leader further cautioned against potential Russian interference in Armenia’s upcoming parliamentary elections in June, saying, "Russia is actively trying to instill fear in Armenian voters about closer ties with Western partners. It spreads falsehoods about the EU's goals and values," adding that Moscow is employing disinformation and hybrid tactics to destabilize Armenia and the wider region.
During Pashinyan’s Berlin visit, both nations signed a joint declaration establishing a “strategic agenda” to guide key areas of cooperation.
Pashinyan highlighted Armenia’s commitment to strengthening ties with Germany and expanding economic, trade, and political cooperation.
"I expressed my gratitude to Chancellor Merz for Germany's support in efforts to institutionalize peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan," Pashinyan said, noting opportunities arising from the opening of regional transport routes in the South Caucasus.
He also mentioned progress in Armenia-Türkiye relations, including efforts to open the border crossing, which could facilitate a railway connection from Germany to Armenia. Pashinyan reiterated Armenia’s commitment to EU integration, emphasizing that the country’s Europeanization is driven by citizens’ democratic aspirations and values. He added that the National Assembly passed a law in March related to the EU accession process and expressed hope for continued German support in deepening EU-Armenia relations.
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