Energy Cooperation Highlights at Russian Energy Week

Moscow:A roundtable titled "3+3 Platform Energy Cooperation as a Pillar of Peace and Security in the South Caucasus" was held as part of Russian Energy Week. Elshad Nasirov, Vice President of the State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOCAR), delivered a speech emphasizing the importance of reliable energy supplies and the expansion of economic and trade relations among South Caucasus countries.

According to Azeri-Press news agency, Nasirov highlighted the potential benefits of fully utilizing existing pipeline infrastructure to enhance energy security and cooperation. He pointed out that Russia, Iran, and Azerbaijan possess significant energy resources, while Türkiye offers advanced energy infrastructure and transit capabilities. The availability of multiple transport routes is crucial for landlocked energy-producing countries like Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan.

Nasirov cited the Shah Deniz gas condensate field development project as a prime example of regional cooperation, showcasing the interconnected nature of energy interests. He also mentioned SOCAR's investments in Türkiye, such as the Petkim petrochemical complex and the STAR oil refinery, as well as the company's involvement in Georgia's energy supply chain.

The SOCAR Vice President discussed swap cooperation with Iran, where Azerbaijan supplies gas to Iran, and Iran, in turn, supplies gas to the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. He also stressed the role of energy cooperation in fostering peace in the region, highlighting Azerbaijan's first-time supply of gasoline and diesel fuel to Armenia as a significant step towards regional harmony.