Expert: Azerbaijan is country of interest to EU in all spheres

Azerbaijan is a country of interest to the EU in all spheres, Director of the Atlas Research Center, Azerbaijani political scientist Elhan Shahinoglu told Report.

The expert noted that Azerbaijan is a window to Europe, and for this reason is essential for the EU.

“Azerbaijan plays an important role in diversifying energy supplies to Europe. Europe’s dependence on Russian gas has increased in recent years, which worries the EU, which has imposed sanctions on Russia. Since this year, Azerbaijan has been supplying large volumes of gas to Europe. In addition, Azerbaijan has strategic agreements with about nine European countries. Our country is working on signing a strategic agreement with the EU, and I hope that it will be signed by the end of this year,” Shahinoglu said.

The political scientist also expressed confidence in the reciprocity of these relations. In particular, the primary energy resources of Azerbaijan are supplied to Europe, and the EU countries are the leading trade partners of the republic.

“Azerbaijan cooperates with various European structures – be it the OSCE or PACE. Azerbaijan is trying to build its army under NATO standards. Therefore, the development of cooperation is important for both sides,” the expert stressed.

Azerbaijan’s important role in the energy supply of Europe was also noted by EU Commissioner for Neighborhood and Enlargement Oliver Varhelyi during his visit to the countries of the South Caucasus.

Azerbaijan is a strong partner and has already begun to provide its assistance in terms of diversification of energy resources, Varhelyi said.