Commissioner: EU aims to expand energy partnership with Azerbaijan

EU Commissioner for Energy and Housing Dan Jørgensen has said that the EU expressed its intention to continue and potentially broaden its partnership with Azerbaijan in the energy sector, particularly in light of the ongoing geopolitical shifts.

Jørgensen made these remarks during a press conference in Baku, where he emphasised the strategic importance of Azerbaijan as a reliable energy partner for Europe, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

"In Europe, we are striving for full independence from Russian gas. Since Russia's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, we have actively reduced imports of Russian gas. The share of Russian gas in our energy mix has dropped from 45 per cent to 13 per cent, with the ultimate goal of eliminating it entirely. This achievement has been possible—and can be fully realized—thanks to dependable partners like Azerbaijan," Jørgensen stated.

The EU commissioner also praised the existing collaboration between the EU and Azerbaijan, describing it as mutually beneficial and emphasising the potential for growth in their relationship. 

"We are confident in the potential of this partnership and are committed to continuing it in the future, while also exploring opportunities for its expansion," he added.

In addition to traditional energy cooperation, Jørgensen highlighted the ongoing collaboration on the "green transition", which aims to shift both economies toward sustainability.

"The EU has set ambitious goals, including achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and reducing emissions by 90 per cent by 2040. To reach these targets, partnerships in renewable energy and energy efficiency are crucial," Jørgensen remarked. 

The green transition was a focal point of the recent discussions between the EU and Azerbaijan, and Jørgensen reiterated that strengthening these partnerships is a priority for the EU moving forward. 

"Looking ahead, it is clear to us: we want to further solidify these reliable and constructive relations with Azerbaijan," he added.

By Naila Huseynova