German Chancellor Merz addresses foreign companies and congratulates Azerbaijan and Armenia on peace deal
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Tuesday (9 December) that foreign companies, including those from the U.S., must comply with German and European Union laws. He made the remarks in response to criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump over a fine imposed on social media platform X.
“German and European companies operating in the U.S. must follow the laws in place there and, if necessary, face serious penalties. Similarly, American companies in Europe must accept the rules that apply here. If they fail to do so, there are of course possibilities for sanctions in Germany and Europe,” Merz said during a joint press conference with the Armenian Prime Minister.
On Monday (8 December), Trump described the €120 million fine imposed by the European Commission on Elon Musk’s social media platform for violating EU transparency rules as “nasty”.
Merz also said that discussions with the Armenian Prime Minister included Armenia’s desire to join the European Union and Germany’s position on the matter.
In addition, Merz congratulated Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on reaching a peace agreement. He made the announcement during the same press conference in Berlin, where Pashinyan was visiting Germany.
“This is a significant achievement. The Federal Republic of Germany has closely supported both Armenia and Azerbaijan throughout this process,” Merz said.
The Chancellor expressed satisfaction with the agreement reached in March and the transport-related accord concluded in Washington in August. “This is a promising sign for peace and prosperity both in the region and globally. Your agreement sends an important and positive message, even beyond the region, during these tense and changing times. In our view, the key issue now is for Armenia and Azerbaijan to take the remaining steps peacefully and resolve outstanding matters through mutual agreement,” he added.
Merz also emphasised that Germany will continue to support both parties in this process.
During the visit, a declaration on the strategic agenda for bilateral cooperation between Germany and Armenia was also signed.
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