President Aliyev: Azerbaijan-Germany ties to support regional peace, cooperation UPDATED

Azerbaijan and Germany are entering a new stage of cooperation, with bilateral ties expected to contribute to broader regional peace, stability, and connectivity, President Ilham Aliyev said during a joint press conference with Federal Chancellor of Germany Friedrich Merz.

“Germany, as a leading country in the European Union, is increasing its influence in the South Caucasus,” President Aliyev said, Caliber.Az reports via state media.

“Azerbaijani-German relations will contribute not only to bilateral ties, but also to cooperation, peace, and tranquility throughout our region,” he added.

The Azerbaijani leader expressed confidence that the agreements signed during his visit would further deepen bilateral relations.

“I am confident that the documents signed today will elevate our relations to a new level,” President Aliyev said.

"We had already wished for the start of a strategic dialogue, and we have achieved it," he added.

President Aliyev also highlighted the importance of expanding economic cooperation between the two countries, noting the existing trade ties and potential for further growth.

“Last year, our trade turnover with Germany stood at approximately $1.5 billion. Crude oil accounts for the main part of our exports,” said Aliyev.

"Azerbaijan is capable of supplying oil in the required volumes. This can be carried out both through domestic sources and through the trading arm of our energy company, SOCAR. In other words, there are no issues here," President Ilham Aliyev emphasised.

Addressing economic cooperation, President Aliyev highlighted the importance of collaboration in transport, connectivity, and transit, noting Germany’s role in these areas.

“German–Azerbaijani cooperation is also of great importance regarding connectivity and transit capabilities, as German companies have achieved significant success in this field,” said President Ilham Aliyev.

The Azerbaijani president emphasised that the country is expanding its transport infrastructure and strengthening its role as a link between regions.

“Azerbaijan is upgrading its transport infrastructure and, having become a full member of the Central Asian consultative format last year, acts as a bridge between Central Asia and Europe—a role that will continue to grow,” he said.

Touching upon energy cooperation, President Aliyev underlined Azerbaijan’s contribution to Europe’s energy security.

“Today, our gas is delivered to 10 European Union member states, which is undoubtedly a significant contribution to energy security,” he said.

"Considering that Azerbaijan also exports its oil to Germany and is determined to deliver its green energy to Europe in the future, cooperation in the energy sector will be very wide-ranging," President Aliyev emphasised.

The Azerbaijani president also spoke about relations between Azerbaijan and the European Union, describing recent high-level contacts as an important factor in strengthening ties.

“This year, we witnessed visits to Azerbaijan by both the President of the European Council, Mr. Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ms. Ursula von der Leyen. These visits hold significant political importance. This will further strengthen relations between the European Union and Azerbaijan,” President Aliyev said.

By Vugar Khalilov