Envoy: Azerbaijan-EU cooperation goes far beyond energy sector

The European Union (EU) Ambassador to Azerbaijan Peter Michalko has said that Azerbaijani-EU cooperation is focused on the energy sector but goes far beyond that.

He made the remarks at a press conference in Baku on December 15, having called the cooperation’s 2022 outcome productive, according to Report.

The ambassador recalled that the EU would allocate 2 billion euros to Azerbaijan for economic diversification, the creation of new jobs and the development of inclusive rural areas.

"The implementation of some EU-backed projects has already started in Azerbaijan. For example, a project to improve the management system of the Port of Baku was launched in December this year to make it the most developed in the region and to obtain green port status," Michalko said.

Commenting on the signed memorandum of understanding on strategic energy partnership, Michalko said that it aims to develop also further renewable energy cooperation between the two sides.

He said that Azerbaijani-EU talks on a new agreement are underway, and a new meeting on negotiations took place this week. He described the talks as successful.

"Currently, the negotiations are at the highest level, there is progress. However, on some points, discussions on reaching an agreement are continuing. I believe that very soon we will witness the completion of negotiations and the conclusion of a new agreement," the ambassador added.

The ambassador said that the EU will continue to contribute to the process of demining the liberated territories of Azerbaijan.

"Mine clearance is an important part of the restoration of the liberated territories. 27 countries support this process," he noted.

According to him, the EU projects extend to the whole country: "We are already considering such an opportunity to support the liberated territories. We expect an answer from the authorities, what are the priority projects here."

Michalko expressed hope for the establishment of sustainable peace and prosperity in the South Caucasus.