Expert: Synchronizing Azerbaijan, Armenia energy systems can support lasting peace

Synchronizing the energy systems of Azerbaijan and Armenia could create guarantees for long-term peace in the region, Arnold Stepanyan, head of the Multinational Georgia civic movement, told Report's Georgian bureau.

He made the remarks while commenting on prospects for energy cooperation between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

Stepanyan said cooperation in the energy sector could become one of the strongest tools for strengthening interaction between the two countries and societies.

"This will not only contribute to this; I would say even more: in real everyday life, it will become one of the strongest tools for strengthening interaction between the two societies and the two countries," he said.

According to him, relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia are already developing in a positive direction.

The expert described the interconnection and synchronization of the energy systems as one of the first practical steps of a long-term nature.

"The synchronization of energy systems will be the first practical step of a long-term nature and will create certain guarantees for long-term peace in the region," he stressed.

Stepanyan also noted Azerbaijan's growing role as an energy exporter in the region. In his opinion, Azerbaijan is no longer only a supplier of raw materials, but is also acting as a country exporting electricity.

The expert said the future synchronization of the energy systems of Azerbaijan and Armenia could expand access to new markets.

He emphasized the importance of this cooperation being based on mutual interests, noting that the main issue is not the price at which electricity is sold, but the transparency of the system and the opportunities for the sides to operate jointly in international markets.

Stepanyan added that the development of cooperation in the energy sector could also have a positive impact on other joint business projects and various economic areas in the future.