The visit of German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to Azerbaijan heralded a significant dialogue between Baku and Berlin, highlighting Germany’s dedication to fostering robust partnerships. A key development was Azerbaijan’s commitment to supplying renewable energy to Europe, signalling a long-term cooperative venture that could reshape regional energy dynamics.
Despite a minor diplomatic hiccup involving a controversial video aired by the German president’s office just prior to his arrival, which was subsequently apologised for, the visit unfolded in a cordial and constructive manner. The atmosphere remained business-like, centring on strengthening Germany-Azerbaijan relations amidst shared strategic interests.
Experts from Germany and Russia provided insights on the implications of Steinmeier’s visit. Notably, Alexander Rahr noted that the timing of Steinmeier’s visits to Armenia and Azerbaijan aligns with the EU’s goal of diminishing Russian influence in the region. He suggested that Germany aims to foster Azerbaijan’s integration into Europe through enhanced energy cooperation.
Svyatoslav Andrianov praised the return of Azerbaijan’s territory from Armenian occupation. He emphasised the importance of a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan, noting its potential benefits for regional stability and infrastructure development. He highlighted that Azerbaijan is crucial for German economic interests, being the only country in the South Caucasus with a German chamber of commerce.
In contrast, Evgeny Kudryats remarked that the incident regarding Steinmeier’s social media post is resolved, with Berlin acting swiftly to uphold the diplomatic relationship. Meanwhile, Stanislav Tkachenko pointed out the recalibration of German foreign policy towards Azerbaijan and the strategic significance of a proposed transport corridor through the region, which could serve Germany’s economic needs.
Tkachenko identified two primary motivations for Germany: firstly, to gain access to the burgeoning natural resources and markets of the South Caucasus and Central Asia, and secondly, to navigate and secure benefits from the emerging transport corridor project that would connect China to European markets, while avoiding entanglements with competing interests, notably from Russia.
German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier’s visit to Azerbaijan marked a pivotal point in strengthening Baku-Berlin relations, focusing on energy cooperation and peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Despite a diplomatic misstep prior to his arrival, experts believe the visit signals a concerted EU strategy to diminish Russian influence in the South Caucasus. Key insights highlight the strategic importance of Azerbaijan for Germany’s energy needs and reinforce that peace in the region would be mutually beneficial.
Steinmeier’s visit to Azerbaijan laid the groundwork for a strengthened partnership focused on energy cooperation and regional stability. Despite a pre-visit misunderstanding, key figures in political science view this as a step towards reducing Russian influence in the region. Experts agree that the peace treaty between Azerbaijan and Armenia is pivotal for future cooperation and that Germany’s interests align with the stabilisation and economic potential of Azerbaijan and its neighbours.
Original Source: caliber.az
