German FM hopes for reconciliation between Armenia and Turkey

“We respect Armenia’s decision to join the Eurasian Economic Union and hope that it will not hinder the development of relations with the EU,” German Foreign Minister Frank Walter Steinmeier said at a joint press conference with Armenian Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian.

Touching upon the forthcoming Sargyan-Aliyev meeting scheduled for October 27 the German FM voiced hope it would mark progress in the process of settlement of the Karabakh conflict.

Edward Nalbndian said, in turn, Armenia is doing its best to achieve a peaceful resolution of the issue, and I ready to move forward on the basis of the statements adopted by the leaders of the co-chairing countries. He added, however, that Azerbaijan has not demonstrated such willingness so far.

As for the Armenian Turkish relations, Minister Steinmeier said Germany hopes for certain signs of reconciliation.

Frank-Walter Steinmeier said Germany’s long road to partnership with France after two world wars could serve as an example following the 1915 slaughter and exile of Armenians during World War I.