Quick Read:
- EU Special Representative Magdalena Grono held talks in Ankara on South Caucasus issues.
- Discussions included the normalization process between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
- Grono positively assessed the visit, noting open and constructive exchange with Turkish partners.
- Regional cooperation opportunities were also discussed, involving Turkey, South Caucasus, Central Asia, and the EU.
Magdalena Grono, the European Union’s Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the crisis in Georgia, has concluded a visit to Ankara, where she engaged in discussions with Turkish officials regarding the situation in the South Caucasus and prospects for regional cooperation. Key topics during the visit included the normalization process between Armenia and Azerbaijan, the ongoing conflict in Georgia, and opportunities for normalizing relations between Turkey and Armenia.
EU Welcomes Dialogue Between Armenia and Azerbaijan
In a social media post, Magdalena Grono expressed a positive assessment of her visit to Ankara and conveyed gratitude to her Turkish counterparts for the open and constructive exchange of views. She emphasized that establishing peace and stability in the South Caucasus is a priority for the European Union, and the EU is ready to support all efforts aimed at promoting dialogue and strengthening trust in the region. Grono’s positive remarks signal the EU’s continued commitment to actively facilitating peaceful resolutions in the South Caucasus through diplomatic engagement.
Prospects for Regional Cooperation
Discussions during the visit also focused on the prospects for enhanced regional cooperation. In particular, opportunities for strengthening economic ties, developing transport infrastructure, and implementing energy projects that could benefit not only the countries of the South Caucasus but also Turkey, Central Asian nations, and the European Union were explored. Grono indicated the EU’s readiness to actively participate in regional projects and support the deepening of regional cooperation across various sectors. This emphasis on regional cooperation highlights the EU’s broader strategy to foster stability and prosperity through interconnectedness and mutual benefit.
Turkey as a Key Regional Player
Turkey plays a significant role in the South Caucasus region, and the EU values dialogue with Turkey on matters of regional security and stability. Ankara also has a vested interest in establishing peace and prosperity in the South Caucasus. The EU and Turkey can potentially collaborate to address regional challenges and promote regional cooperation. Magdalena Grono’s visit to Ankara represents an important step towards activating EU-Turkey dialogue and fostering joint efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace and stability in the South Caucasus, leveraging the complementary roles of both actors in the region.