19:00, 2 March 2023
YEREVAN, MARCH 2, ARMENPRESS. Germany is concerned about the unstable situation on the border of Armenia and Azerbaijan and the worsening humanitarian situation in Nagorno-Karabakh. Germany attaches importance to reaching a peaceful settlement from the point of view of the territorial integrity of Armenia and Azerbaijan, as well as the right of self-determination of the citizens of Nagorno-Karabakh, ARMENPRESS reports, Chancellor of Germany Olaf Scholz announced at a joint press conference after the meeting with Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan.
Scholz said that during the meeting with the Armenian Prime Minister, they exchanged ideas regarding the deepening of bilateral relations. He mentioned the fact that Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has started a process of comprehensive reforms in Armenia. Germany wants to continue assisting Armenia on this way, within the scope of its capabilities. Scholz considered it important that last year Germany started cooperation with Armenia in the field of development.
Scholz also emphasized that Armenia and Azerbaijan should go step by step to a long-term solution. The Armenian Prime Minister presented Sholts with the latest developments in Nagorno-Karabakh. "We are concerned about the unstable situation on the border of Armenia and Azerbaijan and the worsening humanitarian situation in Nagorno-Karabakh. The status quo cannot continue and a long-term solution must be found for the good of the people. From this point of view, it is necessary to reach a peaceful resolution, from the point of view of the territorial integrity of Armenia and Azerbaijan, as well as the right of self-determination of the citizens of NK. Moreover, all these principles are equal," said the Chancellor.
Germany supports the mediation efforts of the President of the European Council Charles Michel. Scholz emphasized that Germany did this by also sending German personnel as part of the EU civilian mission. Moreover, that mission will be headed by a German federal police officer.
Scholz considered the exchange of ideas between Pashinyan and Aliyev in Prague and Munich as an encouraging step for the resolution of the conflict.
Referring to the question and the observation that Azerbaijan does not even comply with the decision of the Hague Court to ensure free movement through the Lachin Corridor, Scholz reaffirmed. "We support the right to self-determination, as well as the principle of territorial integrity." He emphasized the improvement of security in the region.
Scholz and Pashinyan also talked about the countries' economic relations. The Chancellor of Germany encouraged Prime Minister Pashinyan to continue his fight against corruption.
Scholz also thanked the Armenian Prime Minister for his visit to Germany.