Azerbaijan is one of the key energy partners of the US in the changing global landscape, geopolitical expert and former director of the Austrian Institute for European and Security Policy (AIES) Velina Tchakarova said in an exclusive interview with Report.
She emphasized that Azerbaijan’s plans to expand oil production align with broader geopolitical interests, particularly those of the United States. With the growing global demand for fossil fuels, Washington views Baku as a critically important supplier ensuring energy security.
“The US administration, especially under current leadership, adheres to an expansionist approach to energy production, and Azerbaijan fits perfectly into this strategy. Increasing oil production will not only strengthen Azerbaijan’s economic position but will also serve US interests by ensuring diversification of supply routes bypassing hostile influences,” said Tchakarova.
She also emphasized that Azerbaijan is well-positioned to become a key energy partner for both the EU and the US. Against the backdrop of Russia’s weakening energy dominance, Baku’s ambition to increase gas exports to Europe to 20 billion cubic meters per year by 2027 puts the country at the center of the EU’s energy security strategy.
“The Southern Gas Corridor, including the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline, as well as the Trans-Anatolian and Trans-Adriatic pipelines, is becoming a turning point in energy route diversification. This infrastructure not only strengthens Europe’s energy security but also enhances Azerbaijan’s geopolitical influence,” the expert emphasized.
In her opinion, Azerbaijan’s cooperation with major global energy companies, including BP, as well as strategic partnerships with Türkiye and Israel, strengthens its role in global efforts to diversify energy resources.
“Azerbaijan provides 40% of Israel’s oil needs and has signed an agreement with BP for gas exploration, which further cements its position in the global energy transition,” added Tchakarova.
Beyond energy, Azerbaijan plays an important role in global trade and connectivity. The Middle Corridor and the North-South International Transport Corridor strengthen Azerbaijan’s position as a strategic transit hub connecting Europe and Asia.
“The Azerbaijani government demonstrates strategic vision by investing in key transport and logistics infrastructure, including the Baku port and the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway. These initiatives not only enhance Azerbaijan’s economic resilience but also contribute to achieving the broader goal of ensuring regional stability,” Tchakarova added.
While strengthening ties with the West, Azerbaijan is simultaneously successfully dealing with regional security challenges. Chakarova noted that the country is taking decisive steps to counter external influences threatening its sovereignty. The recent closure of the “Russian House” in Baku confirms Azerbaijan’s commitment to protecting its national interests.
The expert also emphasized the importance of maintaining cybersecurity to protect Azerbaijan’s critical infrastructure, especially in the energy and financial sectors.
“Azerbaijan needs to remain vigilant against hybrid threats, including disinformation campaigns and cyberattacks that may attempt to disrupt its strategic achievements,” she emphasized.
