Europe is increasing its focus on Azerbaijan as it seeks stable energy supplies and stronger eastern partnerships, Romania’s Foreign Minister Oana-Silvia Țoiu has said.
Speaking to journalists ahead of the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Luxembourg, Țoiu highlighted broader European Union efforts to reduce reliance on traditional energy sources and identify more dependable partners.
"Regarding the South Caucasus, I have held talks with the foreign ministers of Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Georgia. This is especially important in the context of Azerbaijan. The message I will convey to my colleagues today concerns the essential role Azerbaijan plays in energy infrastructure and connectivity," Țoiu said.
In an interview with AnewZ, political analyst Fuad Karimli said the shift should be viewed in the context of recent instability, particularly following the war in Ukraine. He noted that Europe has faced pressure during colder months, when energy demand rises and prices increase.
In recent years, Azerbaijan has expanded gas exports to several EU countries. At the same time, attention is shifting towards renewable energy. Projects linking the South Caucasus to Europe, including a planned electricity cable beneath the Black Sea, are progressing.
Karimli said this demonstrates that the EU sees Azerbaijan as “a reliable partner”, not only for gas but also for future green energy supplies. He added that cooperation with Georgia is central to these plans.
European officials are also increasingly referring to the South Caucasus as a whole, including Armenia alongside Azerbaijan and Georgia.
Karimli said this signals a more balanced approach, suggesting it reflects the EU’s interest in supporting peace efforts in the region while ensuring continued involvement in future economic and energy projects.
For many in Europe, energy security remains a daily concern. Households and businesses have felt the impact of high prices in recent years. Expanding supply routes could help reduce costs and improve stability.
Karimli said the benefits are mutual. Increased EU interest could bring investment into the South Caucasus, particularly in renewable energy. Azerbaijan has been developing solar and wind projects, including in areas such as Karabakh, where there is significant potential.
Azerbaijan is also emerging as a key link in wider trade and transport routes. The so-called “Middle Corridor” connects Asia to Europe through the South Caucasus, offering an alternative to routes affected by conflict elsewhere.
Karimli described this as an opportunity rather than a challenge. He said growing interest from global powers, including the U.S., China and Russia, reflects the region’s rising importance.
“The EU finally understands that the South Caucasus is not just a peripheral region,” he said, adding that it now plays a strategic role in energy security and trade.
He noted that cooperation between countries in the region is improving, pointing to developing economic ties between Armenia and Azerbaijan. This, he said, could support long-term stability.
The current global situation has also highlighted how quickly energy markets can change. Disruptions in the Middle East have pushed oil prices higher, underlining the need for more diverse supply routes.
Karimli said this is one reason Europe is looking more closely at partners such as Azerbaijan. While fossil fuels remain important, the long-term focus is shifting towards cleaner energy.
He said the foundations for future cooperation are already being laid. With continued investment and political stability, the South Caucasus could strengthen its role as a bridge between Europe and Asia.
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