President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received Marta Kos, the European Commissioner for Enlargement, in Baku on 18 September.

Their discussions focused on advancing peace in the South Caucasus and strengthening strategic cooperation between Azerbaijan and the European Union.

Commissioner Kos congratulated President Aliyev on progress in the peace process with Armenia and reiterated the EU’s support for a lasting settlement in the region. She also praised Azerbaijan’s humanitarian demining efforts in previously occupied territories.

The EU official highlighted the growing success of Azerbaijan-EU energy cooperation, stressing that future collaboration in the transport sector held significant promise.

President Aliyev recalled his recent meeting in Tirana with President of the European Council António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, describing it as constructive and forward-looking.

Expressing gratitude for the EU’s support, President Aliyev reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to promoting regional peace. He drew attention to the country’s major investments in transport infrastructure across the liberated territories and cited the strategic importance of road and railway links to Zangilan.

On energy matters, the Azerbaijani leader noted that Azerbaijani natural gas is currently being exported to 10 European countries, including eight EU member states. He emphasised that the export geography continues to expand in line with Europe’s energy diversification goals.

The two sides also discussed the rising volume of cargo shipments from Central Asia to Azerbaijan via the Middle Corridor, and exchanged views on broader issues of mutual interest.

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