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Akbar Novruz

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The Czech Republic has reaffirmed its view of Azerbaijan as a strategic partner in efforts to diversify Europe’s energy supply, according to the Czech Ministry of Industry and Trade, AzerNEWS reports via Trend.

Commenting on the outcomes of the 12th ministerial meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council and the 4th Green Energy Advisory Council meeting held in Baku on March 3, the ministry underlined that participation in the platform is of strategic importance for both national energy security and wider European cooperation.

“Our main priorities at the 12th meeting were: supporting the further diversification of Europe’s energy supply sources and routes; strengthening cooperation aimed at reducing dependence on fossil fuels of Russian origin; increasing the resilience of energy systems in Central and Eastern Europe, particularly amid the suspension of Russian gas transit via Ukraine; and contributing to infrastructure development and regulatory conditions for reliable gas supplies,” the ministry said.

The Czech side emphasized that Azerbaijan has established itself as a reliable and strategic partner in this process, particularly through its role in the Southern Gas Corridor.

“We assess the platform as an opportunity to deepen cooperation on broader issues such as modernization of energy infrastructure, development of renewable energy sources, strengthening the liquidity and integration of EU gas markets, and ensuring energy sustainability and supply chain security,” the statement added, noting that no specific formal agreements are currently planned.

The ministry also highlighted that Azerbaijan remains one of the main suppliers of crude oil to the Czech Republic, with cooperation involving SOCAR playing a key role in ensuring energy security.

In addition, Prague expressed support for Azerbaijan’s long-standing initiative to develop an energy corridor across the Black Sea, a project included in the European Union’s list of projects of common interest.

Looking ahead, the Czech Republic sees strong potential for expanded cooperation in renewable energy. With growing electrification and rising energy demand in the EU, Czech companies are positioned to contribute in areas such as turbine production, solar technologies, energy storage systems, hydrogen solutions, and efficiency measures, leveraging Azerbaijan’s significant potential in solar and offshore wind energy.