Ukraine imports Azerbaijani gas via Transbalkan route for first time

Ukraine’s national oil and gas company, Naftogaz Group, has signed its first natural gas supply agreement with SOCAR Energy Ukraine, a subsidiary of Azerbaijan’s state oil company SOCAR.

The deal marks a significant milestone as it enables the delivery of Azerbaijani gas to Ukraine via the Transbalkan corridor, which runs through Bulgaria and Romania. The initial shipment, though modest in volume, is being described as a strategically important step toward deepening long-term energy cooperation between the two countries, Caliber.Az reports via Naftogaz Group.

“This is a small volume but a strategically important step that paves the way for long-term cooperation. It is also another example of diversifying supply sources and strengthening Ukraine’s energy security,” said Sergii Koretskyi, CEO of Naftogaz Group.

Ukrainian officials highlighted the role of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the Cabinet of Ministers, and the Ministry of Energy in facilitating the agreement, while also expressing appreciation to Azerbaijani partners for their collaboration and trust.

By Sabina Mammadli