Press conference with Federal Chancellor Merz and Azerbaijan’s President Aliyev
Germany and Azerbaijan are strengthening their bilateral relations through a Joint Declaration. President Aliyev’s visit also focused on establishing a German-Azerbaijani Economic Council and ensuring regional stability in the South Caucasus.
- Transcript of press conference
- Tuesday, 21 July 2026
During Aliyev’s visit, a declaration was also signed between Germany and Azerbaijan setting out a strategic agenda for the bilateral partnership.
Photo: Federal Government/Sandra Steins
Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasised at a press conference with Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev that the peace treaty concluded between Azerbaijan and Armenia in 2025 was historic and presented an opportunity to resolve this decades-long conflict. Germany and the EU would also benefit from peace, security and stability in the South Caucasus, a region of such geopolitical importance. “Whatever we can do to contribute to this from a German and European perspective, we will do”, said the Chancellor after receiving the Azerbaijani President at the Federal Chancellery.
The most important points in brief:
- Similarities between Germany and Azerbaijan: both Germany and Azerbaijan have been severely affected by the wars in Ukraine and Iran, both in terms of security and the economy. The specifics of the conflicts vary greatly. However, Merz said that efforts would be made everywhere to find negotiated solutions, as only these would ultimately bring about peace and stability.
- Strengthening the economic and energy partnership: the Federal Chancellor remarked, “I am very pleased that relations between our countries are developing dynamically”. The signing of a Joint Declaration by Merz and Alijev during the visit lays the foundations for further developing bilateral cooperation. The establishment of a German-Azerbaijani Economic Council also serves this aim; Merz described it as an “important signal” to businesses in both countries. The focus here is on cooperation in the supply of crude oil and natural gas via the Southern Gas Corridor. “We want to further diversify our energy supply with Azerbaijan”, the Chancellor emphasised.
- New trade corridors and investment frameworks: as the South Caucasus is becoming increasingly important as a link between Europe and Asia, it is essential to harness the potential of new transport and trade corridors. The Federal Chancellor also reported on constructive discussions regarding a proposal from Azerbaijan for an investment programme that could open up new opportunities for German companies operating there.
Read the transcript of the press conference here (in German only):