Relations between Azerbaijan and the European Union are entering a new phase of development. A series of visits by senior EU officials to Baku demonstrates that bilateral cooperation is expanding beyond the traditional energy agenda to encompass transport connectivity, green energy, and regional stability. This reflects Azerbaijan’s growing role in the evolving architecture of relations between Europe and the South Caucasus. In an interview with AZERTAC, prominent American political scientist and Professor of International Politics at the University of Central Florida Houman Sadri shares his views on these developments.
— The visits of European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen appear to signal a new phase in the Azerbaijan–EU relations. What political messages is Brussels sending through these visits? Can we speak of the emergence of a strategic partnership?
— These visits demonstrate that the European Union attaches great importance to its relations with Azerbaijan. For Brussels, Azerbaijan is an important partner in ensuring energy security, enhancing transport connectivity, and promoting stability in the South Caucasus. At the same time, the future development of bilateral relations will depend on the conclusion of new agreements, the institutionalization of cooperation, and the extent to which the long-term interests of both sides converge.
— Azerbaijan is now viewed not only as a reliable supplier of energy resources but also as a major transport and logistics hub linking Europe and Central Asia. How is its importance for the EU evolving?
— Azerbaijan’s significance for the European Union has expanded considerably. Beyond its role as a supplier of natural gas, the country has become one of the key players in the development of the Middle Corridor, which connects Europe with the South Caucasus and Central Asia.
As a result, Azerbaijan is increasingly regarded not only as an energy partner but also as an essential link in advancing trade, transport integration, and regional connectivity.
— During her speech in Baku, Ursula von der Leyen placed particular emphasis on the Green Energy Corridor project. Could cooperation in green energy become a new chapter in Azerbaijan–EU relations?
— Yes. Cooperation in renewable energy is becoming one of the most promising areas of engagement between Azerbaijan and the European Union. The Green Energy Corridor project has the potential to strengthen energy connectivity and broaden cooperation beyond the traditional gas partnership.
That said, the pace of implementation would depend on the level of investment, infrastructure development, and the harmonization of regulatory frameworks. In the foreseeable future, green energy is more likely to complement the existing gas partnership than replace it.
— Azerbaijan is simultaneously developing relations with the European Union, the United States, China, Türkiye, and the countries of Central Asia. How successful has this multi-vector foreign policy been?
— Azerbaijan’s multi-vector foreign policy has enabled the country to strengthen ties with a broad range of international partners while maintaining a high degree of diplomatic flexibility. Its strategic geographic location, combined with its role in ensuring energy security and developing international transport corridors, has significantly enhanced its standing on the global stage.
Today, Azerbaijan is consolidating its position as one of the region’s key partners, capable of playing an important role in energy, logistics, and regional cooperation.
