In a significant development aimed at enhancing regional infrastructure and cooperation, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has declared that the European Union will allocate up to €200 million in grants to Azerbaijan. This financial support is intended to bolster transport, energy, and digital infrastructure projects within the country, with the potential to mobilize up to €2 billion in further public and private investments.
This announcement was made during von der Leyen’s visit to Baku, where she met with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. The discussions between the two leaders focused on strengthening bilateral energy cooperation, enhancing regional connectivity, and advancing the peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan. As part of these discussions, von der Leyen proposed the establishment of a new EU-Azerbaijan connectivity partnership, aiming to deepen ties and collaboration on critical infrastructure projects.
Highlighting the progress made since the 2022 energy agreement between the EU and Azerbaijan, President Aliyev noted that Azerbaijani gas exports to EU member states have surged by approximately 65%. Currently, ten EU countries are importing gas from Azerbaijan, underscoring the growing energy partnership between the EU and Azerbaijan.
In addition to infrastructure and energy initiatives, von der Leyen announced a €20 million support program for Azerbaijan’s border communities. This program is designed to address various local needs by focusing on healthcare, mine clearance, rural development, and support for small businesses, thereby promoting stability and development in these regions.
Following the engagements in Azerbaijan, von der Leyen is set to continue her diplomatic visit to the South Caucasus with planned discussions in Armenia, further emphasizing the EU’s commitment to fostering peace and cooperation in the region.