Shahbazov: D-8 creates opportunities for Azerbaijan's energy ties

Energy cooperation within the D-8 creates opportunities for Azerbaijan to strengthen its energy partnerships not only with Europe, but also across Asia, the Middle East and Africa.

Report informs that Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov said this at the first meeting of energy ministers of D-8 member states.

According to him, the acceleration of Europe's green energy transition, uncertainties over future gas demand and growing competition in global energy markets strengthen the grounds for intensifying and expanding Azerbaijan's energy diplomacy across a broader geography.

"Cooperation in the supply of LNG and petroleum products has entered a new stage following the Memorandum of Understanding signed last year. In this context, extensive oil pipeline infrastructure stands out as a promising initiative.

There are broad opportunities for cooperation with Iran in electricity exchange and exports, gas operations and regional energy connectivity. Work is currently underway on the joint construction of the Khudafarin and Giz Galasi hydropower plants, with a total capacity of 280 megawatts, while the completion of the Ordubad hydropower plant remains high on the agenda. Electricity cooperation is currently carried out through transmission lines with a capacity of 500 megawatts. In addition, the creation of a 1,000-megawatt East Zangazur-Nakhchivan electricity connection is being discussed," he said.