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Ralf Horlemann: European Union's interest in Azerbaijan has increased further in recent years

15 June 2026 16:20 (UTC +04:00)

"The European Union's interest in Azerbaijan has increased even further in recent years from the perspective of energy security," German Ambassador to Azerbaijan Ralf Horlemann said at a press conference organized on the occasion of the completion of his term of office, APA reports

"The European Union has always supported strong relations with Azerbaijan. Over the past 12 months, we have observed a steady upward trend in these relations. In March, President of the European Council Antonio Costa visited Azerbaijan.

The European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, who is considered the EU's foreign minister, Kaja Kallas, also visited Azerbaijan. The parties are also negotiating a new cooperation agreement.

Thus, numerous positive developments are observed in the relations. This also demonstrates the European Union's great interest in the region and in Azerbaijan. In recent years, this interest has increased even further, particularly from the perspective of energy security," the ambassador noted.

He also touched upon cooperation in the project to reconstruct the railway in Nakhchivan, emphasizing that this railway will become one of the important parts of the Middle Corridor. The ambassador stated that the further expansion of these connections is in Germany's interest.

Ralf Horlemann also shared his impressions of the Azerbaijani people:

“I would like to highlight the unparalleled hospitality of the Azerbaijani people. Wherever I went, I met people who spoke German. This is not surprising, as many people are learning the German language. From Guba to Lankaran, from Sheki to the Absheron Peninsula, wherever I have been, I have always been welcomed very warmly and sincerely. I have also met people who have a friendly attitude toward Germany.”

The ambassador also spoke about peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia:

“Seeing peace gradually take shape between Azerbaijan and Armenia confirmed a point that I often made during my time here: even the deepest enemies can one day find peace. This is largely reflected in relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia as well. The peace agreement has not yet been signed or ratified, but very serious progress has been achieved in this direction. Following my two visits to Armenia during my tenure in Azerbaijan, I can say that both Azerbaijanis and Armenians want to leave the war behind once and for all. This became one of the deepest personal experiences I gained in Azerbaijan.

I can only wish for both countries to continue moving forward on the path to peace, open their borders, allow trade to develop freely, and leave the conflict in the past, thereby opening completely new prospects for the entire region.”

Toghrul Guluzade

Ralf Horlemann Germany German Ambassador Azerbaijan Azerbaijan-Armenia relations peace process peace agreement regional cooperation border opening trade development hospitality Azerbaijani people bilateral relations South Caucasus Armenia diplomacy international relations Germany-Azerbaijan relations ambassador farewell Baku peace and reconciliation