Head of Naftogaz on gas deal with Azerbaijan: New chapter in relations – EXCLUSIVE

Deliveries of Azerbaijani gas to Ukraine mark a strategic step that paves the way for long-term cooperation, Serhiy Koretskyi, CEO of Ukraine’s national company Naftogaz, said in an interview with the Eastern European Bureau of Report, commenting on the recent signing of the first agreement with Azerbaijan for the purchase of natural gas.

“Ukraine celebrates its first-ever agreement on importing Azerbaijani gas via the Trans-Balkan Corridor. This is a new chapter in our relations and the beginning of long-term cooperation between our countries,” Koretskyi said.

He noted that trial deliveries will be carried out through the Bulgaria–Romania–Ukraine route.

“This is a small but strategic step that opens the door to broader cooperation,” the Naftogaz head emphasized.

According to him, this deal contributes to diversifying sources and strengthening Ukraine’s energy security: “We thank Azerbaijan for the trust it has shown.”

As reported earlier, on July 28, 2025, Ukraine’s Naftogaz Group signed its first agreement with SOCAR Energy Ukraine, part of the SOCAR group, for the purchase of Azerbaijani natural gas. The volumes of supply were not disclosed.