Albanian envoy: First stage of Ionian Adriatic Gas Pipeline project launched

Albania has begun the first phase of implementing the Ionian Adriatic Gas Pipeline project, which will ensure the supply of Azerbaijani natural gas to Croatia through Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albanian Ambassador to Azerbaijan Besart Kadia said in an interview with Baku TV, Report informs.

The diplomat emphasized that Albania plays a key role in ensuring Europe's energy security, being one of the transit countries for the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP).

"We are pleased with the full implementation of this project as it represents a reliable southern gas corridor for Europe. During meetings in Baku, we discussed the importance of supply diversification through the Ionian Adriatic Gas Pipeline with an exit point in Albania, which will run through Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina to Croatia. This pipeline, approximately 520 km long, demonstrates great potential in terms of energy integration and energy security for countries in the region. Azerbaijan, thanks to its experience and investment potential, plays an important role in the successful implementation of this project. Certain agreements have already been reached and the initial phase of project implementation has begun," noted Kadia.

He added that in Albania, where hydropower predominates, the solar energy sector is also actively developing.

"We are working to attract private investment in both these areas. At the same time, several countries in the region are heavily dependent on coal. Therefore, gas supply and the creation of a regional energy network are extremely important for energy security. The integration of Balkan countries will help make their energy markets more efficient and sustainable. Albania has always played a positive role in developing cooperation in the Balkans and supporting free energy markets," the ambassador said.