Albanian Deputy PM advocates deepened coop with Azerbaijan on gasification projects

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure and Energy, Belinda Baluku, highlighted Albania's readiness for robust collaboration with Azerbaijan in gasification efforts within the country, Report informs with reference to the Albanian Telegraphic Agency.

Speaking during the presentation of the draft law "On Approval of the Agreement on Economic Cooperation between the Council of Ministers of Albania and the Government of Azerbaijan" in the Albanian Parliament, Baluku underscored the existing "bridge of cooperation" between the two nations in the energy sector.

"Albania together with Azerbaijan is part of the Southern Gas Corridor, which originates in Azerbaijan and traverses through Albania en route to other European nations," Baluku noted.

According to the Deputy Prime Minister, the successful implementation of the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) has opened new opportunities for cooperation, including gasification projects for Albanian cities.

"The new agreement expands the scope of cooperation with Azerbaijan in the fields of tourism, agriculture, investment, as well as education and culture. Both countries wish to stimulate and develop cooperation in trade and investment, including facilitating contacts and exchanges between our respective ministries and agencies, chambers of commerce and industry, as well as organising joint business forums, missions and bilateral meetings," the politician stated.

Baluku also advocated for increased tourist flows between Albania and Azerbaijan, revealing discussions with relevant authorities to establish a direct flight route between Baku and Tirana in the near future.

The agreement, approved by President Ilham Aliyev on May 6, 2024, underscores the commitment of both nations to strengthen economic ties and cooperation.