In a diplomatic turn, Germany has officially apologised to Azerbaijan for a controversial social media post. The post, shared on President Frank-Walter Steinmeier’s account, featured a flag linked to former separatists in Karabakh, igniting tension just before Steinmeier’s intended visit to Armenia. Dörte Dinger, from the German presidential office, conveyed this apology in a letter to Hikmet Hajiyev, advisor to Azerbaijani President İlham Aliyev, acknowledging the mistake and its prompt removal from Instagram.
Dinger emphasised that the post was unintentional, a mere technical error with no reflection of Germany’s established stance on Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity. “I deeply regret this mistake and sincerely apologise for any false impression it may have created in Azerbaijan,” she remarked, highlighting the intention to bolster the Azerbaijan-Germany partnership and support the ongoing peace process during Steinmeier’s forthcoming visit to Azerbaijan.
The aftermath of the post saw Azerbaijan’s government summon the German ambassador in Baku, urging for an official apology. Steinmeier, currently in Armenia, is set to engage in talks in Azerbaijan shortly. The longstanding tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan trace back to 1991 when Armenian forces occupied Karabakh and adjoining territories.
Azerbaijan reclaimed much of the land in a brief but intense conflict in 2020, leading to a ceasefire brokered by Russia. In September 2023, it fully restored its sovereignty over Karabakh following the surrender of the remaining separatist forces. Recently, both nations have indicated their readiness to finalise a comprehensive peace agreement, marking progress in a historically fraught relationship.
Germany has apologised to Azerbaijan for an Instagram post displaying a separatist flag, mistakenly linked to President Steinmeier before his visit to Armenia. The post was removed swiftly, and Dörte Dinger expressed regret for any wrong impressions. Azerbaijan’s ambassador was summoned in response. Steinmeier’s upcoming talks in Azerbaijan aim to strengthen ties and support peace, amidst a backdrop of historical tensions over Karabakh.
This episode underscores the delicate nature of diplomatic communications and the potential ramifications of social media errors. Germany’s swift apology demonstrates its commitment to maintaining a positive relationship with Azerbaijan while supporting ongoing peace efforts in the region. The historical complexities between Armenia and Azerbaijan continue to shape diplomatic engagements and negotiations for a lasting peace agreement.
Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com
