Baku: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and President of the European Council Ant³nio Costa delivered significant press statements during a meeting in Baku. The discussions underscored the growing bilateral ties between Azerbaijan and the European Union, focusing on energy, security, and economic cooperation.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, President Ilham Aliyev expressed his satisfaction in hosting President Costa and emphasized the importance of the visit in enhancing bilateral relations. He highlighted the active dialogue between Azerbaijan and the European Union, noting that the EU is Azerbaijan's leading trading partner, accounting for 50 percent of its trade turnover as of January. Aliyev also pointed out the strategic partnership in the energy sector that has been bolstered since signing an agreement with the European Commission in 2022. Azerbaijan has increased its gas exports to 10 EU member countries, becoming a key player in global energy security.
President Aliyev also addressed the prospects of renewable energy, asserting that Azerbaijan is investing in wind, solar, and hydropower, with plans to export six to eight gigawatts of renewable energy in the next five to six years. He expressed optimism about peace and trade opportunities with Armenia, highlighting the recent lifting of transit restrictions and the initiation of critical oil product supplies to Armenia.
President Ant³nio Costa echoed the sentiments of strengthened cooperation, acknowledging Azerbaijan as a pivotal partner for the EU. He expressed the EU's solidarity with Azerbaijan and appreciation for its assistance in repatriating European citizens from Iran. Costa stressed the importance of energy security and the Southern Gas Corridor amid the geopolitical tensions in Iran, reaffirming the EU's commitment to supporting Azerbaijan's energy transition and encouraging European clean-tech investments.
Furthermore, Costa discussed the strategic value of the Middle Corridor and the importance of completing the Baku-Nakhchivan rail link to enhance connectivity. He also commended Azerbaijan's progress in the peace process with Armenia and condemned recent Iranian aggression against Nakhchivan Airport, emphasizing the EU's support for regional security and stability.
Both leaders underscored the need for continued cooperation to transform current challenges into future opportunities, with President Costa looking forward to hosting President Aliyev in Brussels. The meeting concluded with mutual commitments to deepen the partnership for the benefit of both regions.