Azerbaijan signals readiness to provide gas to Ukraine if needed FM Bayramov in Kyiv

Azerbaijan is prepared to supply natural gas to Ukraine if needed and sees significant potential for cooperation in the use of Ukraine's underground gas storage facilities to enhance regional energy security, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov said.

Speaking at a joint press conference with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha in Kyiv, FM Bayramov said the two countries are engaged in active discussions aimed at expanding bilateral energy cooperation, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

"At present, a very dynamic and active dialogue is underway regarding additional mutually beneficial areas of energy cooperation between Azerbaijan and Ukraine," Bayramov said.

The minister noted that the State Oil Company of the Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR) has maintained a longstanding presence in the Ukrainian market and continues to operate actively in the country, with plans to further broaden its activities.

Bayramov underscored Azerbaijan's growing role in Europe's energy security, highlighting that the country currently exports natural gas to 12 European countries, including 10 European Union member states.

"From this perspective, we will be ready to supply gas to Ukraine if such a need arises," he said.

He also identified Ukraine's extensive underground gas storage network as a promising avenue for future cooperation, saying its potential use could contribute to strengthening energy security across the wider region.

"We consider this a very promising area for our future cooperation," Bayramov added.

By Vafa Guliyeva