Baku: President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan and the President of the European Council met in Baku to deliver joint press statements, highlighting strengthened ties between Azerbaijan and the European Union across multiple sectors. The meeting underscored the significance of their bilateral relationship, particularly in energy and security.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, President Aliyev expressed gratitude for the European Council President's visit, emphasizing the importance of their active dialogue and successful partnership. He noted that the European Union is Azerbaijan's primary trading partner, with half of Azerbaijan's trade turnover attributed to EU countries. The strategic partnership in the energy field, formalized in 2022, has led to increased Azerbaijani gas exports to 10 EU countries, enhancing energy security across the region.
President Aliyev also outlined future plans to increase gas production and expand renewable energy capacities. Azerbaijan is investing in wind, solar, and hydropower, aiming to export six to eight gigawatts of renewable energy in the coming years. The leaders acknowledged the importance of connectivity and transit arrangements, especially in light of the peace agreement with Armenia, which has opened new opportunities for regional cooperation.
President of the European Council expressed the EU's solidarity with Azerbaijan, acknowledging its role as a key partner. He praised Azerbaijan's assistance in repatriating European citizens from Iran and highlighted the revitalized relationship between the EU and Azerbaijan. Energy security remains a cornerstone of their cooperation, with the Southern Gas Corridor playing a vital role in diversifying energy sources for the EU.
The European Council President also stressed the importance of connectivity, particularly the development of the Middle Corridor and the Baku-Nakhchivan rail link. These initiatives are seen as strategic opportunities to enhance trade resilience between Europe and Asia, contributing to economic growth and stability. The progress in the peace process with Armenia was acknowledged as historic, with the EU supporting the full implementation of the Washington agreements.
Both leaders condemned the recent attack by Iran on Nakhchivan Airport, emphasizing the need to safeguard regional security. The European Union remains committed to working with partners to de-escalate tensions and protect civilians, especially amidst ongoing global instability. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further strengthening the partnership between Azerbaijan and the European Union, aiming to transform current challenges into future opportunities for both regions.