Huseyn Huseynov: Baku-Sofia energy cooperation strengthens EU security

Energy cooperation between Baku and Sofia is becoming a key factor in strengthening energy security and ensuring diversification of energy sources for both Bulgaria and the European Union as a whole, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Bulgaria Huseyn Huseynov said in an interview with Bulgarian media outlet Stroitel, according to Report.

He said the economic partnership between the two countries has expanded significantly in recent years, with energy being a central element:
"Exports from Azerbaijan to Bulgaria have grown substantially in recent years, especially in natural gas, lubricants, and petroleum products," the ambassador noted.

Huseynov emphasized that Azerbaijan is a key supplier of natural gas to Bulgaria, covering a significant share of its domestic demand under a long-term contract.

"The Southern Gas Corridor, particularly the commissioning of the Greece-Bulgaria interconnector, enabled Sofia to receive Azerbaijani gas directly. Another milestone was the opening of SOCAR's office in Sofia in 2023. In partnership with local companies, SOCAR actively participates in energy projects, including gasification and distribution. SOCAR obtained a 10-year license to trade natural gas in Bulgaria and, since last year, has been supplying both industrial enterprises and social consumers," he said.

The ambassador also highlighted mutual interest in cooperation on renewables, hydrogen, and green technologies:

"Both countries are exploring opportunities in renewable energy, particularly within the Green Energy Corridor project, which leverages Azerbaijan's renewable potential alongside Bulgaria's infrastructure and transit position. This year, Bulgaria joined Azerbaijan, Georgia, Romania, and Hungary in an initiative to transmit renewable energy via a subsea cable across the Black Sea. In addition, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed for a new energy cooperation project involving Azerbaijan, Georgia, Türkiye, and Bulgaria. Agreements were also concluded to create new interconnections for transmitting and trading green electricity, allowing the export of renewables from Azerbaijan to Europe," Huseynov added.