Antonio Costa in Baku: ‘Azerbaijan’s regional role is more important than ever’

The Republic of Azerbaijan is “a key partner” for the European Union, European Council President António Costa told journalists after his meeting with President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev in Baku on 11 March.

“Over the past year, we have revitalised our relationship,” Costa said. “And today’s meeting is a clear sign of our shared commitment to further cooperation, especially in the areas of security, energy, digital and transport. And to make full use of the existing dialogue mechanisms, including on security and human rights.”

The Presidents reiterated their commitment to the swift finalisation of negotiations on a new comprehensive bilateral agreement, which would provide a solid legal framework to further develop relations. They also highlighted the importance of adopting renewed Azerbaijan-EU Partnership Priorities and making full use of existing dialogue mechanisms, including the EU-Azerbaijan Cooperation Council, to further advance the bilateral agenda in all areas.

Costa said that energy security was a cornerstone of EU-Azerbaijan bilateral cooperation: “Four years ago today, in Versailles, the European Council made the decision to diversify our supply sources for gas, oil, and coal. And Azerbaijan has been central to this effort – thanks to the Southern Gas Corridor. And today, the impact is clear.”

He added that with the war in Iran, this partnership is “more important than ever”: “The EU stands ready to mobilise private investment and financing to support Azerbaijan’s energy transition. We also encourage greater involvement of European clean-tech companies in your ambitious plans.”

The Presidents also discussed the potential to expand electricity interconnection initiatives, such as the Black Sea Submarine Cable project.

The European Union reaffirmed its commitment to cooperation with Azerbaijan on connectivity under the Global Gateway, and other relevant mechanisms, including support to railway modernisation in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic of the Republic of Azerbaijan. They welcomed the establishment of a High-Level Working Group on Economic Cooperation to strengthen EU-Azerbaijan economic cooperation and investments under the Global Gateway initiative.

Antonio Costa also  said that the progress made in the peace process with Armenia was “historic” and expressed full solidarity with Azerbaijan and its people, condemning the recent attack by Iran on Nakhchivan airport.

“Against this backdrop of global instability, it is more important than ever to strengthen the ties between us. We look forward to Azerbaijan hosting in 2028 the summit of the European Political Community,” the EU Council President concluded.

Find out more

Joint press statement

Press remarks by President António Costa