Grono: The European Union's Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the crisis in Georgia, Magdalena Grono, addressed official Baku's concerns over terminology in the EU-Armenia document during an interview with APA. She discussed the outcomes of her recent visits to Azerbaijan and Armenia, EU relations with Azerbaijan, and prospects for future cooperation.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Grono emphasized the EU's commitment to enhancing cooperation with the South Caucasus and supporting the peace initiative in the region. Her visit to Azerbaijan included high-level consultations with key officials, focusing on the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace process, EU-Azerbaijan relations, and humanitarian issues like demining efforts.
Grono clarified the EU's role as a strategic player rather than a mediator in the Azerbaijan-Armenia peace process. She highlighted the bilateral nature of discussions and the EU's support for political, technical, and expertise-based negotiations. The EU's interests extend beyond negotiations, fostering regional cooperation and connectivity initiatives.
Grono expressed optimism about the security balance in the region post-peace agreement, noting the historic initialling of the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty in Washington, DC, in August 2025. She acknowledged Azerbaijan's model for regional cooperation based on sovereignty and mutual respect, aligning with the EU's strategic vision.
Addressing Azerbaijan's humanitarian challenges, Grono reaffirmed the EU's support for demining activities. She emphasized the importance of clearing landmines to facilitate safe access to resources and support the return of displaced populations.
Grono acknowledged Azerbaijani concerns over the EU-Armenia Strategic Agenda for Partnership, which includes contentious terminology. She reassured that the EU remains committed to the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace process and respects the bilateral format.
The EU's focus on regional connectivity was evident in discussions about the Nakhchivan railway line, part of the TRIPP project. Grono reiterated the EU's commitment to supporting connectivity initiatives that enhance regional trade and cooperation.
Regarding the EU Monitoring Mission in Armenia, Grono stated that its future activities would be discussed between Yerevan and Brussels, considering developments in the peace process.
Grono acknowledged the EU's support package for Armenia under the European Peace Facility and expressed openness to similar support mechanisms for Azerbaijan, contingent on discussions with Azerbaijani authorities.