Azerbaijani and Turkish Energy Ministers Visit SOCAR Türkiye’s STAR Refinery and Petkim Complex
Baku, The Gulf Observer: As part of the Azerbaijan–Türkiye 4th Energy Forum in Izmir, Azerbaijani Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov and Turkish Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Alparslan Bayraktar visited SOCAR Türkiye’s STAR Oil Refinery and Petkim Petrochemical Complex in Aliağa.
During the visit, the ministers toured SOCAR Türkiye’s production facilities, which were described as strategically important for the economies of both countries. Officials emphasized that the Aliağa projects represent a substantial component of Azerbaijan–Türkiye energy cooperation, with Azerbaijan’s energy investments in Türkiye now exceeding $18 billion.
Particular attention was given to Petkim’s 60 years of industrial expertise, which remains vital to both Azerbaijan and the broader industrial sector. The ministers also discussed the strategic role of the STAR Refinery, which has an annual crude oil processing capacity of 13 million tons, underscoring its contribution to regional energy security and supply.
In addition, information was shared regarding SOCAR’s new investment plans in Türkiye, further strengthening bilateral energy and industrial cooperation.
The complex, designated as SOCAR Türkiye’s first “Special Industrial Zone,” hosted the visit, which was attended by state officials from both Azerbaijan and Türkiye alongside the energy ministers.
