Berlin: An event titled 'Turning Point in the South Caucasus: Historic Peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia' was held at the German Parliamentary Society, under the Bundestag in Berlin, as reported by Azerbaijan's embassy in Germany to APA.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the event was organized by Germany's ICI Institute and Ludwig Maximilian University. It was the first of its kind in Germany, attended by members of the German government, Bundestag representatives, and notable figures from Germany's political, economic, and academic sectors. Key speakers included German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, Chairman of the Bundestag Foreign Affairs Committee Armin Laschet, along with Azerbaijan's Ambassador to Germany Nasimi Aghayev and Armenia's Ambassador to Germany Viktor Yengibaryan.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul shared his insights as a former chairman of the Bundestag's Germany-South Caucasus parliamentary group, expressing familiarity with the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict. He emphasized the importance of the peace process achievements from the previous year, considering them a significant milestone in European history. Wadephul stated Germany's readiness to support ongoing efforts and highlighted the potential for stable relations between both countries and the European Union.
Armin Laschet, Chairman of the German Parliament's Committee on Foreign Affairs, praised the historic event's Berlin debut and the participation of both nations' ambassadors. He underscored the significance of new transport links to Central Asia, which are crucial for Europe. Laschet also mentioned his involvement during German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier's official visits to Azerbaijan and Armenia, highlighting Azerbaijan's traditions of tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
Azerbaijan's Ambassador Nasimi Aghayev discussed the strategic leadership of President Ilham Aliyev in pursuing regional peace post-2020 Patriotic War. Aghayev acknowledged Azerbaijan's role in initiating the peace agenda and drafting the agreement, noting Germany's constructive involvement. He referenced the historic peace summit in Washington where a joint declaration was signed, marking a new chapter in relations.
Aghayev stressed the need for Armenia to align its Constitution with the peace agreement principles and to resolve territorial claims against Azerbaijan. He elaborated on Azerbaijan's recent peace-strengthening measures and the increased dialogue between parliaments and civil societies.
Highlighting the TRIPP route's significance, Aghayev explained how restoring connectivity between Azerbaijan and the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic could enhance economic interests and diversify trade in the region, benefiting Europe's supply chains. He urged for the timely establishment of this route.
The event concluded with a question-and-answer session, where ambassadors addressed numerous inquiries from attendees, who appreciated the discussions.