EU Council president visits Azerbaijan, condemns Iran strikes, reaffirms solidarity

President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, visited Azerbaijan on Wednesday. A meeting between Costa and President Ilham Aliyev was held to reaffirm the European Union’s support amid regional security concerns, particularly following recent Iranian attacks on Nakhchivan Airport.

During a joint media briefing, Costa highlighted the EU’s commitment to Azerbaijan, condemning the attacks in the “strongest terms” and emphasising the importance of regional stability under international law.

“The European Union remains committed to working with all partners through dialogue and diplomacy to de-escalate tensions and protect civilians,” he said.

The meeting also underscored Azerbaijan’s strategic role in regional energy security.

Costa praised Azerbaijan’s continued natural gas exports to Europe, with 10 EU countries currently receiving Azerbaijani gas. He also highlighted the potential to expand supplies under the 2022 memorandum of understanding, which aims to double deliveries to 20 billion cubic metres.

Major energy supplier

President Aliyev stressed that, in total, 16 European countries now receive pipeline gas from Azerbaijan, reinforcing the country’s position as a key global energy supplier.

Beyond energy, discussions also focused on bilateral peace efforts with Armenia. Aliyev emphasised progress since the joint declaration signed in August 2025, noting that Azerbaijan and Armenia have maintained peace over the past seven months.

“Since 1991, Azerbaijan has been an independent sovereign state, but only recently have we been living in peace with Armenia,” he said.

The visit comes amid heightened regional tensions following Iranian strikes on Azerbaijani territory.

• Strikes on Nakhchivan: What we know so far
• Exclusive: Iran's Deputy FM Gharibabadi tells AnewZ Tehran 'does not target its neighbours', after Nakhchivan strikes

Costa concluded by reaffirming the EU’s solidarity and willingness to cooperate with Azerbaijan on energy, security and diplomatic fronts, underscoring the country’s regional role in both stability and energy supply.

Tags

News Politics European Commission The European Union Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev Antonio Costa Regional Security Middle East conflict Iran Nakhchivan