Baku: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen delivered significant press statements on July 1, emphasizing the burgeoning relationship between Azerbaijan and the European Commission. The statements underscored the shared commitment to enhancing cooperation in trade, energy, and regional stability.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, President Ilham Aliyev expressed his satisfaction with the unprecedented dynamism in the relationship with the European Commission, highlighting that the European Union is Azerbaijan's main trading partner. He noted that this relationship is marked by Azerbaijan's significant role as a major trading partner in the South Caucasus, with 70% of regional trade involving Azerbaijan. The discussions particularly focused on energy cooperation, where Azerbaijan has increased its natural gas exports to the EU by 65% since signing the MoU on Strategic Partnership in the energy field. President Aliyev also emphasized Azerbaijan's progress in renewable energy, with contractual commitments to achieve eight gigawatts of solar and wind energy in the coming years.
President Aliyev further addressed the regional security landscape, highlighting the successful normalization process between Azerbaijan and Armenia. He mentioned the historic signing of the Joint Declaration in Washington, which marked a significant milestone in the peace agreement. Azerbaijan's initiatives, including lifting transit restrictions and supplying critical fuels to Armenia, were pivotal steps toward fostering peace and cooperation in the region.
In her statement, President Ursula von der Leyen praised Azerbaijan's leadership in promoting regional peace and cooperation. She announced the Global Gateway Investment Program, which aims to invest in transport, energy, and digital links across the South Caucasus, potentially mobilizing up to 2 billion euros in investment. The program underscores Azerbaijan's strategic role in regional connectivity, with plans to launch an EU-Azerbaijan Connectivity Partnership to enhance transport, energy, and digital collaboration.
President von der Leyen also introduced a new 20-million-euro peace-fostering program, focusing on improving healthcare, safety, and rural development in the region. She reiterated the importance of Azerbaijan as a reliable energy partner, particularly during times when Europe's energy security was challenged. The discussions included Azerbaijan's potential in developing renewable energy, highlighting plans for a Green Energy Corridor and the future of clean electricity.
The joint statements by both leaders reflect a shared vision for a peaceful and prosperous South Caucasus, connected to Europe, the Caspian, and Central Asia. The European Union's commitment to deepening economic ties and supporting regional peace efforts underscores the strategic importance of Azerbaijan in regional and international cooperation.