European Commission spokesperson explains purpose of von der Leyen’s visit to Yerevan and Baku

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s visit to the South Caucasus should be viewed in the context of the European Union’s efforts to support the peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan and promote regional connectivity, European Commission spokesperson Paula Pinho said during a briefing in Brussels.

Responding to a question about von der Leyen’s visit, Pinho said that the European Commission president is scheduled to hold talks in Azerbaijan on Wednesday and in Armenia on Thursday.

Von der Leyen will be accompanied during the visit by European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos.

According to Pinho, the regional tour follows the signing of what she described as the “historic” peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and reflects the EU’s commitment to promoting transport and energy connectivity across the region.

“When I speak about connectivity, I am referring to energy and transport. This can play a crucial role in bringing people closer together and fostering integration,” she said.