Foreign ministry: Azerbaijan favours politically active cooperation with NATO

Azerbaijan prioritizes active political cooperation with NATO on various issues, said Anar Mutallimov, Acting Head of the Military-Political Department at Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry.

Mutallimov made this statement at the Energy Security and Climate Change Forum, held under NATO-Azerbaijan partnership discussions, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

He emphasized Azerbaijan’s commitment to European security, stating, “Azerbaijan remains dedicated to its obligations on security in Europe.”

In 2024, Azerbaijan produced 23 billion cubic metres of gas, with 9 billion cubic metres exported to Europe, he said. 

Reflecting on Azerbaijan’s achievements over the past three decades, Mutallimov highlighted the country’s progress in establishing itself as a reliable partner to NATO and in strengthening regional security.

“Azerbaijan prioritizes politically active cooperation with NATO on various issues,” he said. “We are committed to enhancing security in the Euro-Atlantic region. Azerbaijan is a dependable partner not only in implementing reforms in security, environmental, and peace sectors but also in ensuring energy security,” Mutallimov said.

These remarks underscore Azerbaijan’s ongoing role as a key energy supplier to Europe and its dedication to fostering stability within the Euro-Atlantic framework.

Notably, Azerbaijan has been providing natural gas to Europe through the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) since December 31, 2020. TAP constitutes the final segment of the Southern Gas Corridor (SGC) and stretches over 773 kilometres onshore and 105 kilometres offshore, originating at the Turkish-Greek border, traversing Greece and Albania, and culminating in Italy.

Bulgaria receives Azerbaijani gas directly through an interconnector linked to TAP, reducing its dependency on other gas sources.

The European market accounts for the largest portion of daily gas exports from Azerbaijan, with approximately 27 million cubic meters of Azerbaijani gas supplied to European consumers daily.

In addition to the existing markets, countries such as Slovakia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, and Serbia are exploring the possibility of receiving gas from Azerbaijan.

By Khagan Isayev