Germany and Europe are keen to ensure peace and long-term stability in the South Caucasus, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier said during a joint press conference with Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan in Yerevan.

The two presidents also discussed ongoing peace negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan, according to Armenpress.

“There is great interest in Germany and Europe in seeing lasting stability in the South Caucasus,” Steinmeier stated.

He praised the recent progress in drafting a peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan, calling it worthy of recognition. He congratulated both sides for their efforts and noted that the agreement, once signed, could serve as a basis for long-term peace in the region. However, he also emphasized that the negotiations remain incomplete, as the document has not yet been signed or ratified.

“It’s important for both sides to seize this opportunity to establish lasting and stable peace in the South Caucasus,” Steinmeier added. He mentioned that this topic would also be discussed during upcoming meetings with officials in Baku.

Speaking on Armenian-German relations, the German president highlighted visible progress in bilateral ties in recent years, reflected in mutual visits and continued dialogue. He emphasized ongoing cooperation across multiple fields and pointed out significant future potential for growth.

Steinmeier also noted that the European Union remains a crucial trade partner for Armenia, and Germany intends to sustain and deepen that cooperation. “We are pleased in Germany to see Armenia’s growing interest in the EU and Europe,” he said.

He acknowledged the importance of this approach for reducing long-term dependencies and reorienting the country economically and in terms of security. Steinmeier expressed hope that Armenia would succeed on this path.

He also referenced European and German efforts in supporting Armenia, particularly highlighting the role of the EU’s monitoring mission in enhancing border security. “It is very encouraging to hear in Armenia how important the presence of this civilian mission is, especially for residents of border communities. It provides an added sense of security,” he said.

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has stated multiple times that the peace agreement draft with Azerbaijan is finalized and awaits signing. On March 13, Armenia’s Foreign Ministry announced it had accepted Azerbaijan’s proposals on two previously unresolved articles, declaring the agreement ready for signature. Armenia has expressed readiness to begin consultations on the timing and venue for signing, while Baku has introduced new preconditions and claimed it’s too early to discuss dates.