Germany interested in South Caucasus stability, says President Frank-Walter Steinmeier

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier on Monday said that his country and the entire Europe are interested in a stable South Caucasus. 

“In Germany and Europe, there is great interest for stability to prevail in the South Caucasus region,” the German president said. 

He described the finalization of the terms of the peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan as very impressive and congratulated both sides.

He said the peace agreement would pave the way for lasting peace in the region.

“The parties should use this appropriate moment for lasting and sustainable peace to be established in South Caucasus,” the German president said, adding that he will speak about this during his Azerbaijan visit as well.

President Frank-Walter Steinmeier said he’s impressed with the development of Armenia-Germany bilateral ties in the past years. 

He noted that the EU is an important trading partner for Armenia and Germany wants to continue this cooperation.

“We are very happy in Germany about Armenia’s interest in the EU,” he said, referring to the passage of the EU bill, adding that the move requires courage in terms of overcoming many years of dependency in security and economy. 

He expressed hope that Armenia will be successful on that path. The German president underscored the work around the EU monitoring mission. “It is very encouraging to hear in Armenia what role that civilian monitoring mission has had especially for residents of border communities. The mission’s presence creates a sense of extra security,” the German president said.

On March 13, the governments of Armenia and Azerbaijan announced that negotiations on the peace treaty terms have been concluded.

Armenia offered Azerbaijan to sign the peace deal as soon as possible, but Baku has been making new preconditions, essentially delaying the signing.