Merkel: Azerbaijan's potential can be developed only after resolution of Karabakh conflict

Azerbaijan, like the whole region, will be able to fully develop its potential only after the resolution of regional conflicts, the German Chancellor Angela Merkel said in a letter to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on occasion of the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

"Germany, as an OSCE Minsk Group member, will continue to participate in a peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and support the co-chairs’ efforts,” she stressed.

The politician recalled that bilaterial relations of Germany and Azerbaijan date back to long ago. "Two centuries ago, the first Swabian immigrants settled in the territory of modern Azerbaijan. The fact that our relations are vibrant and comprehensive was confirmed with your visit to Germany in June 2016. Germany welcomes your commitment to cooperate closely with our country and your willingness to integrate into the European community of values. You can rest assured that Germany will remain a reliable partner in your country's modernization and the development of democracy and rule of law,” Merkel noted.

Chancellor wished Azerbaijan peace, prosperity, and the two countries a successful continuation and further deepening of the trustworthy cooperation.