Kaja Kallas’s visit marks turning point in EU-Azerbaijan relations Romanian analysis

A recent article by Vladimir Ionescu in the respected Romanian analytical publication Cursul de Guvernare (“Course of Governance”) examines the recent visit of Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, to Baku.

The visit is described as a potential turning point in EU-Azerbaijan relations, signalling the start of a new chapter in their partnership, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

The author underscores the significance of the visit, particularly as it took place amid a backdrop of prolonged disagreements between Baku and Brussels.

European media, the article notes, have interpreted the trip as a “noteworthy event,” reflecting a possible thaw and shift in diplomatic momentum.

Kallas's visit on April 25 included meetings with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov, and other senior officials. According to the article, these discussions focused on identifying concrete steps to enhance EU-Azerbaijan cooperation. Topics on the agenda included the importance of continued high-level dialogue, the promotion of mutually beneficial initiatives, and the advancement of negotiations on a comprehensive partnership and cooperation agreement tailored to current geopolitical and economic realities.

Energy cooperation was a central theme of the talks, particularly the role of Azerbaijan in supplying natural gas to European markets. Kaja Kallas, during her meetings in Baku, characterised the Southern Gas Corridor as “not merely energy infrastructure, but a symbol of partnership.” The article highlights this statement as a reflection of the EU’s recognition of Azerbaijan’s strategic importance in contributing to Europe’s energy security.

Observers cited in the article believe that both the statements made during the visit and the overall tenor of the bilateral meetings suggest that Azerbaijan’s role as a reliable energy partner for the EU is poised to grow. The visit is thus seen not only as a diplomatic gesture but as a concrete step toward reinforcing long-term cooperation in multiple areas, with energy at the forefront.

By Tamilla Hasanova