From pipelines to AI: Azerbaijan becomes key pillar in US cooperation focus Article by Euronews

Washington wants to play a more significant role in pipelines and other energy infrastructure being developed by Azerbaijan, US Assistant Secretary of State for Economic, Energy and Business Affairs Caleb Orr has stated, according to an article published by Euronews.

Speaking at the first Azerbaijan–US Economic Dialogue in Baku, Caleb Orr said Washington sees opportunities extending far beyond traditional hydrocarbons. 

He also noted that the United States supports Azerbaijan’s growing role as a transit hub, highlighting the Middle Corridor.

Responding to Euronews on the importance of Baku–Washington relations, Azerbaijani Economy Minister Mikayil Jabbarov said strong political ties have created favorable conditions for deeper economic cooperation.

“You are right. Due to the leadership of President Aliyev and President Trump, indeed we have very strong and flourishing political relationship,” he added.

According to Jabbarov, cooperation between the two countries is increasingly focused on four strategic priorities. The first is regional connectivity, including trade, transit, and the Middle Corridor, which he described as a natural area for cooperation. He also pointed to energy infrastructure, logistics networks, and the Alat Free Economic Zone.

The minister stressed that critical minerals are emerging as a new direction in bilateral relations, alongside the longstanding presence of major US energy companies in Azerbaijan’s energy sector.

“Critical minerals is a new add-on to our bilateral cooperation,” he said, adding that both sides see significant potential in developing supply chains and exploring new deposits.

Artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure have also become a key focus, reflecting Baku’s ambition to move beyond hydrocarbons and build new areas of technological expertise.

“We believe that AI is a field and an area which has an impact on all fields of economic development,” Jabbarov stated.

He emphasised that Azerbaijan aims not only for data centres and digital infrastructure but for a broader ecosystem built around innovation, productivity, and human capital.