Kyiv: Ukraine’s national oil and gas company, Naftogaz Group, has signed its first agreement with SOCAR Energy Ukraine, a SOCAR Group company, for the purchase of Azerbaijani natural gas. For the first time, a test shipment of gas is being delivered through the Transbalkan route along the Bulgaria-Romania-Ukraine corridor.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, this initial shipment represents a small volume but is considered a strategically important step towards long-term cooperation between the two nations. The development also marks a significant move in diversifying supply sources and strengthening Ukraine’s energy security. Sergii Koretskyi, Chief Executive Officer of Naftogaz, expressed gratitude to the President of Ukraine, the Ukrainian Government, and the Ministry of Energy for their support in reaching this agreement, while also thanking Azerbaijani colleagues for their trust.

This agreement highlights the ongoing efforts to ensure energy security through diversified supply channels, which is crucial for Ukraine’s energy strategy. The collaboration between Naftogaz and SOCAR Energy Ukraine signifies a promising beginning for future energy partnerships.