The visit underscored the multifaceted ties between Azerbaijan and Germany, highlighting both nations’ ongoing dialogue across various sectors including energy, media freedom, and regional diplomacy.
Media Independence and Information Security
President Aliyev stressed the significance of safeguarding Azerbaijan’s media landscape from external negative influences, advocating for adherence to legal standards to maintain national informational integrity. “Like any country, we must protect our media space from external negative influences, and everyone must follow the law,” Aliyev stated. He emphasized Azerbaijan’s commitment to a free society where the media, along with other societal elements, operate in an environment of full freedom.
Energy Partnership and European Dependency on Natural Gas
With Europe’s increasing demand for natural gas, President Aliyev highlighted Azerbaijan’s growing role as a crucial energy supplier. “In 2021, we supplied 8 billion cubic meters of gas to the European Union countries, and this year, that figure has reached 12 billion,” Aliyev reported. He emphasized Azerbaijan’s continued investment and financial commitment to supporting European countries in their energy needs, underscoring Azerbaijan’s rich resources in both traditional and renewable energy forms.
Regional Stability and Negotiations with Armenia
Amidst ongoing tensions, the Azerbaijani leader pointed to progress in the delimitation and demarcation of borders with Armenia, noting the return of four Azerbaijani villages occupied in the early 1990s. He highlighted the constructive cessation of operations at the Joint Russian-Turkish Monitoring Center located in Azerbaijan, signaling potential advancements towards peace. Aliyev praised the peace talks mediated by Germany, revealing plans for upcoming meetings in Kazakhstan aimed at drafting a peace agreement.
Azerbaijan’s Role in Global Climate Initiatives
Speaking at the high-level segment of the “15th Petersburg Climate Dialogue,” President Aliyev elaborated on Azerbaijan’s active participation in global climate efforts, including the upcoming COP29, which he described as both an honor and a significant responsibility. Reflecting on the 2022 energy partnership agreement with the EU, Aliyev pointed out the increasing deliveries of Azerbaijani gas to the EU, emphasizing the strategic advantage conferred by Azerbaijan’s membership in OPEC+. “Countries rich in natural resources, gas, and oil should lead the fight against climate change,” Aliyev asserted, outlining the spirit of solidarity fostered through various platforms aimed at achieving climate goals.
Bilateral Relations and Regular Visits
Aliyev also remarked on the frequent nature of his visits to Germany, suggesting a rapidly developing relationship between the two nations. He recalled his recent meetings with Chancellor Scholz in Berlin and Munich, emphasizing the comprehensive agenda that spans significant bilateral and regional development and stability issues.
President Ilham Aliyev’s statements in Berlin reflect a comprehensive strategic approach towards strengthening Azerbaijan’s international relations, enhancing its energy exports to Europe, protecting media freedom, and progressing in peace negotiations with Armenia. His participation in global dialogues like the Petersburg Climate Dialogue underscores Azerbaijan’s commitment to leading in energy and environmental initiatives, further positioning the country as an influential player in regional and global arenas.
