EU praises Azerbaijan for boosting gas supplies

Additional gas exports from Azerbaijan are playing an important role in the EU’s energy diversification goals, the European Commission spokesperson told Trend News Agency.

“Energy is a cornerstone of EU-Azerbaijan cooperation. It is based on the Memorandum of Understanding signed by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and President of Azerbaijan llham Aliyev in July 2022. The EU is grateful to have Azerbaijan as a reliable partner and energy supplier. Additional gas exports from Azerbaijan are playing an important role in the EU’s energy diversification goals. In 2016, we launched a new regional program, EU4Energy, which supports Eastern Partnership countries, including Azerbaijan, in achieving their energy policy objectives and improving their energy efficiency. A new phase of the Program was launched on 1 January 2026,” said the spokesperson.

The Commission representative noted that trough the Global Gateway initiative and the Cross-Regional Connectivity Agenda, the EU aims to promote investments and strengthen connectivity not only in transport, but also in the energy and digital sectors, with the aim of boosting cross-border trade.

“Leveraging innovative financial instruments alongside bilateral and regional support programs will further deepen economic ties between the EU and Azerbaijan, support the country’s economic diversification, enhance regional connectivity, advance the green and digital transition, create skills and job opportunities, and promote inclusive and sustainable development.”

Azerbaijan exports gas to Europe via the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP), the final leg of the Southern Gas Corridor. Initially capable of transporting 10 billion cubic meters per year, TAP’s capacity is expandable to 20 billion cubic meters annually. In July 2022, Azerbaijan and the European Commission reached an agreement to double gas supplies to Europe by 2027.

Photo: TAP