Popescu: Azerbaijan - strategic partner of Romania

Azerbaijan is a strategic partner of Romania, Energy Minister Virgil-Daniel Popescu told reporters, according to Report’s correspondent sent to Sofia.

Long-term relations have been established between the countries, the minister said, adding that Azerbaijan plays an important role in ensuring the energy security of the region.

He highly appreciated the Memorandum of Understanding signed today in Sofia on developing cooperation among the gas transmission system operators of Bulgaria Bulgartransgaz, Romanian Transgaz, Hungarian FGSZ, Slovak Eustream and the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR), noting that by early 2027 Romania will contribute to the Ring of Solidarity initiative and the entire region.

The energy minister added that Romania is less dependent on Russian gas and provides 80-85 percent of its needs through production, and will play the role of transit in the Solidarity Ring.

“That’s why I mention Moldova and Ukraine, because they are also in the region and need support to ensure the security of supply,” he noted.