German Chancellor Friedrich Merz congratulated Azerbaijan and Armenia on their recent peace deal which he said opened an "historic opportunity" for the region.
He made the comment while speaking at a joint press conference with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in Berlin on Tuesday (9 December).
“This is a significant achievement. The Federal Republic of Germany has closely supported both Armenia and Azerbaijan throughout this process,” Merz said.
"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," the conservative leader said.
“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,” he added.
Merz said that Germany would support closer cooperation between the European Union, Armenia and Azerbaijan highlighting energy and trade opportunities.
During Pashinyan's visit, the two countries signed a joint declaration on a "strategic agenda" outlining key areas of cooperation.
Merz also said that foreign companies, including those from the U.S., must comply with German and EU 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.
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.
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