Deputy minister: Caucasus and Balkan countries should make greater use of their capacity for cooperation

Countries of the Caucasus and the Balkans, despite speaking different languages, understanding different cultures, and having limited resources, should make greater use of their ability to find paths for cooperation, Azerbaijan's Deputy Energy Minister Elnur Soltanov said during a panel session titled "Ensuring the Energy Transition in Southeastern Europe: Cooperation, Resilience, Leadership" at the Belgrade Energy Forum.

According to Report's Balkan bureau, he noted that there are many similarities between the Balkan and Caucasus countries.

"Unfortunately, in many cases these similarities are linked to conflicts and bloody processes. Both regions are complex spaces surrounded by major powers. But at the same time, Azerbaijan is a courageous and recognized country. We understand different cultures, speak different languages, and know how to work with powerful actors. I emphasize this because there are lessons to be learned from it," Soltanov said.

According to him, Azerbaijan has managed to build a regional coalition by making use of cultural and linguistic proximity.

"At the same time, we secured the support of Türkiye, a major regional player, during a difficult period. Had we not established successful cooperation, it would have been impossible to implement the projects we have today. We must learn such positive examples from one another," he added.