Merz meets Aliyev in Berlin, signs strategic partnership

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz hosted Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in Berlin on July 21, 2026. During the visit, Merz expressed interest in buying more gas from Azerbaijan, and the two leaders signed a strategic partnership declaration. Aliyev confirmed the meeting, which was also marked by an official welcome ceremony and a one-on-one discussion. The visit underscores Germany's efforts to diversify its energy sources amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.