President Ilham Aliyev Meets with EU Leaders in Tirana
Tirana, The Gulf Observer: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev held a trilateral meeting today with António Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, in Tirana. The meeting focused on strengthening Azerbaijan–European Union (EU) relations, with particular emphasis on energy cooperation, regional connectivity, and mutual strategic interests.
During the meeting, President Costa and President von der Leyen described Azerbaijan as a reliable and significant partner of the European Union. They praised Azerbaijan’s consistent support during periods of energy uncertainty in Europe, noting the country’s pivotal role in contributing to the continent’s energy security.
The leaders commended Azerbaijan’s growing ties with Central Asia and its leadership role in the development of the Middle Corridor—a strategic transcontinental trade route connecting Asia and Europe. They also welcomed Azerbaijan’s efforts to foster dialogue and cooperation among regional actors to promote peace and stability.
President Ilham Aliyev reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to its partnership with the EU, underscoring the country’s contribution to the continent’s energy diversification. He noted that Azerbaijan currently supplies natural gas to 10 European countries, including eight EU member states, and highlighted the potential for deepening energy cooperation.
The President also detailed Azerbaijan’s substantial investments in transport infrastructure and the country’s achievements in enhancing the Middle Corridor’s capacity. He noted a marked increase in cargo transit through the route, positioning Azerbaijan as a key logistics and connectivity hub in the region.
President Aliyev drew attention to a trilateral strategic partnership agreement signed between Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan, which aims to facilitate the transmission of Central Asia’s renewable energy resources across the Caspian Sea. Discussions also touched on plans to export green energy to Europe through a proposed electric cable to be laid under the Black Sea.
The meeting also explored new avenues for expanded cooperation with the EU in renewable energy and regional connectivity. The leaders emphasized the importance of the Southern Gas Corridor and reviewed discussions from the recent Advisory Council meetings, affirming their shared commitment to further collaboration in this domain.
The talks concluded with an exchange of views on a range of mutual interests, reinforcing the shared strategic vision between Azerbaijan and the European Union in energy, infrastructure, and regional development.
