Expert: Azerbaijan saved Italy from gas shortage

Azerbaijan saved Italy from gas shortage during the global energy crisis caused by sanctions against Russia, Daniel Pommier Vincelli, professor at Sapienza University of Rome, told Report.

“As of December 2022, it could be seen that Azerbaijani gas imports to Italy doubled compared to December 2021, at a time when supplies from Russia were sharply reduced. Of course, not only Azerbaijan provides us with gas, Algeria also plays an important role. We are working on a strategy that will allow us to completely get rid of Russian dependence in a few years, and Azerbaijan is an important factor in this direction,” he said.

As the Southern Gas Corridor (SGC) was put into operation in December 2020, despite the threat of disruption of the project for the construction of the Italian segment of the gas pipeline after the 2018 elections in Italy, it is possible to say that the country, the European Union, private investors and Azerbaijan have committed a geopolitical and an economic miracle, says the professor.

He also noted that in addition to the energy sector, the countries are also actively cooperating within international organizations.

“We believe that Azerbaijan's good and strong relationship with NATO and the EU is critical to greater stability in the region. Given the economic superiority, it is no secret that after the signing of a peace treaty with Armenia, Azerbaijan will become the most influential power in the South Caucasus. Thus, the active participation of the country in international organizations, the strengthening of its multilateral ties with NATO and the EU will benefit everyone,” he added.

According to Daniel Pommier Vincelli, it is worth noting separately that one of the most significant achievements of 2022 is the EU's role in mediating the normalization of relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia, in which Italy also takes part.