Macron and Erdogan Discuss Normalization of Relations Between Armenia and Azerbaijan

WASHINGTON, DC — French President Emmanuel Macron discussed the normalization of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan with Turkish President Recep Erdogan in Washington, the press service of the French President’s Office reports.

“The French president reiterated his support for the ongoing dialog between Armenia and Azerbaijan with the aim of reaching a peace agreement as soon as possible, which could open a new page in the region,” the statement said.

According to the Turkish side, Macron and Erdogan also discussed “bilateral relations, the course of the war between Ukraine and Russia, Israel’s attacks on Palestine, as well as regional and global issues” at the meeting, which took place on the margins of NATO Summit.

It is noted that Erdogan emphasized the strengthening of relations between Turkey and France in all spheres, as well as the need to intensify the process of Turkey’s accession to the European Union.

During a press conference following the NATO summit, Erdogan also touched upon the issues of Armenian-Azerbaijani relations.

When asked whether it was possible to sign a peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan by the end of this year, Erdogan replied that the decision should be made by the President of Azerbaijan.

“We want it to be signed and there will be peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan. In our meetings with the Prime Minister of Armenia, we see that positive steps have been taken here as well,” he noted, emphasizing that during his meetings with the President of Azerbaijan, the latter also spoke in favor of implementing positive steps. Noting that “the world and the region need peace,” Erdogan emphasized that they want to achieve this peace as soon as possible.