Jordan Daily - President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen paid a working visit to the Republic of Azerbaijan on July 1-2, underscoring the growing momentum in relations between Azerbaijan and the European Union and reaffirming the strategic importance of bilateral cooperation across a wide range of areas.
During the visit, President von der Leyen held comprehensive discussions with President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, focusing on energy security, regional connectivity, economic cooperation, renewable energy development, and regional peace and stability.
Speaking at a joint press statement in Baku, President Ilham Aliyev highlighted the dynamic nature of Azerbaijan-EU relations, noting the intensive high-level exchanges between the sides in recent months. He emphasized that the European Union remains Azerbaijan’s largest trading partner and reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s role as a reliable contributor to Europe’s energy security.
The leaders reviewed the successful implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding on a Strategic Partnership in the Field of Energy signed between Azerbaijan and the European Union. Since its signing, Azerbaijani natural gas exports to EU member states have increased significantly, with Azerbaijan currently supplying natural gas to ten EU countries through the Southern Gas Corridor.
The discussions also focused on regional transport and connectivity initiatives. Both sides stressed the strategic importance of the South Caucasus as a bridge between Europe and Asia and acknowledged Azerbaijan’s key role in advancing the Middle Corridor and other major transportation routes connecting Europe, the Caspian region and Central Asia.
A major area of focus was renewable energy cooperation. Azerbaijan presented its ambitious plans to expand solar and wind power generation, including large-scale offshore wind projects in the Caspian Sea and the development of green energy transmission corridors linking the region with European markets.
President von der Leyen announced the European Union’s intention to deepen cooperation with Azerbaijan through the launch of a new EU-Azerbaijan Connectivity Partnership. The initiative will support transport, energy and digital connectivity projects across the South Caucasus and strengthen links between Europe, the South Caucasus and Central Asia.
The European Commission President also announced a new €20 million peace-support package aimed at promoting sustainable development, demining efforts, healthcare services, rural development and support for small and medium-sized enterprises in the region.
A significant part of the discussions focused on the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia. President von der Leyen welcomed the progress achieved toward normalization and praised Azerbaijan’s efforts to advance a lasting peace agenda. The European Union reiterated its readiness to support initiatives aimed at fostering long-term stability, trust and prosperity in the South Caucasus.
During an expanded meeting between the delegations, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in energy, trade, connectivity and investment. The parties also discussed prospects for advancing negotiations on a new comprehensive agreement between Azerbaijan and the European Union.
The visit reflected the growing strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and the European Union and highlighted their shared interest in promoting regional stability, energy security, economic development and enhanced connectivity across the wider region.
