The first Azerbaijan–US Think Tanks Forum, held in Baku on November 18, featured a panel session on “Energy Security and Connectivity.”
Moderated by Damjan Krnjević Mišković, Director of Policy Research, Analysis and Publications at ADA University, the session explored Azerbaijan’s critical role in linking Central Asia and Europe through energy corridors, transport routes, and emerging digital networks. The discussions also focused on the expansion of the Southern Gas Corridor, cooperation in the field of renewable energy, and the development of multimodal transport routes such as the Middle Corridor.
Speaking at the panel, Brigham McCown, Senior Researcher and Director of the Initiative on American Energy Security at the Hudson Institute, highlighted the United States’ growing interest in the Trans-Caspian transport route, noting that Azerbaijan has established itself as a trustworthy partner in regional energy cooperation.
“Successful operation of these corridors requires not only infrastructure, but also effective management and financing mechanisms,” he added. McCown also stressed that Azerbaijan’s renewable energy potential is attracting serious attention, and countries such as the United States are ready to support cooperation in this area.”
Vugar Bayramov, Chairman of the Center for Economic and Social Development, stressed that energy security remains a strategic priority for the region. He recalled that the Southern Gas Corridor plays a decisive role in supplying Azerbaijani gas to Europe and strengthening the continent’s energy diversification. He noted that the Corridor benefits Azerbaijan, European countries, and transit participants alike, and that peace agreements and stability will ensure even more sustainable development of this and other energy projects.
“Azerbaijan now exports natural gas to 14 countries, and volumes transported via the Southern Gas Corridor increase each year. In 2021, exports through the corridor amounted to 17.8 billion cubic meters. By 2024, this figure reached 22.9 billion cubic meters – a 28.65 percent increase,” Bayramov emphasized.
Vusal Gasimli, Executive Director of the Center for Analysis of Economic Reforms and Communication, noted that Azerbaijan is leading the renewal of infrastructure along this synchronous route. “Every chain is only as strong as its weakest link. This is why synchronized infrastructure renewal is essential,” he said.
Carlos Roa, Director of the Keystone Initiative at the Danube Institute, drew attention to rising global demand for energy, technology, and critical resources.
Shahmar Hajiyev, Head of Department at the Center for Analysis of International Relations, underlined Azerbaijan’s significant renewable energy potential.
“As a result, Azerbaijan holds a leading position not only in developing traditional energy corridors but also in creating new cooperation formats in the field of renewable energy. This makes Azerbaijan an indispensable partner for regional energy security and economic integration,” he noted.
The session concluded with an exchange of views among participants.
