Energy plays key role in Baku-Brussels relations, Azerbaijani FM says

Energy holds an important place in relations between Baku and Brussels, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov said at a joint press conference with his Estonian counterpart, Margus Tsahkna, in Baku.

“Azerbaijan began supplying gas to the European market at the end of 2020. We currently export gas to 14 countries, including 12 in Europe—eight of which are EU member states. At the same time, we are carrying out serious work in the field of green energy,” Bayramov said, Caliber.Az reports per local media.

Touching upon the agreements reached between Azerbaijani and Armenian leaders during the Washington summit on August 8, Bayramov said Azerbaijan is already witnessing positive outcomes of these agreements.

According to Bayramov, one of the notable developments was the start of the dissolution process of the Minsk Group on September 1.

“We are aware that talks between the United States and Armenia continue regarding the implementation of the TRIPP [Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity] project. Among the positive elements is Azerbaijan’s decision to allow the transit of goods to Armenia through its territory, particularly the shipment of grain from Kazakhstan,” Bayramov emphasised.

The minister also highlighted economic cooperation with Estonia, noting that “in 2025, compared to 2024, there is a positive trend in the development of economic relations. Over the first eight months of this year, trade turnover between the two countries reached only $25 million. Although this represents a positive dynamic, the figure remains modest.”

Bayramov pointed out the strong potential for cooperation with Estonia in the transport and logistics sectors, adding that “education is also an important area of collaboration. Currently, 373 Azerbaijani citizens are studying in Estonia.”

He further noted that the volume of cargo transportation along the East–West route through Azerbaijan has increased by 90%.

The minister underlined that transport and communications have always been key topics in Azerbaijan-EU relations: “After the start of the Russia-Ukraine war, this issue has become even more relevant. If the TRIPP route is implemented, it will be capable of carrying up to 15 million tons of cargo, creating vast opportunities for Asian countries as well.”

Bayramov added that following the formation of the new European Commission in early 2025, relations between Azerbaijan and the European Union have entered a new phase of activity.

According to him, discussions surrounding the visit of Azerbaijani ministers to Brussels have significantly revived dialogue.

By Khagan Isayev