Elnur Soltanov: Azerbaijan aims to become leader in green energy revolution

Elnur Soltanov: Azerbaijan aims to become leader in green energy revolution

Thanks to its energy projects, Azerbaijan is meeting the needs not only of its own economy but also of the wider region, Azerbaijanchr("39")s Deputy Minister of Energy Elnur Soltanov said during a panel session at the Belgrade Energy Forum dedicated to the energy transition in Southeastern Europe.

He noted that Azerbaijan is currently a supplier of natural gas to a broad regional area.

"At the beginning of the 20th century, Azerbaijan accounted for more than 80% of global oil production and was among the pioneers of the oil revolution. During the Second World War, Azerbaijan supplied roughly 80% of the oil required by Soviet and Allied forces," Soltanov said.

He emphasized that following independence, the country expanded its oil sector and developed a pipeline network extending all the way to the Mediterranean Sea.

"Much of this oil is exported to European countries," the deputy minister added.

Soltanov also stated that since 2000, Azerbaijan has actively developed its gas transportation infrastructure and now holds a leading position in the regional gas sector.

Looking ahead, he said the country"s next strategic objective is to become one of the leaders of the "green energy revolution."

"We are meeting the energy needs not only of Azerbaijan but of the entire region through our energy projects. Azerbaijan benefits both itself and the wider region," he said.

The deputy minister stressed that Azerbaijan is not merely exporting gas, but exporting energy security, highlighting in particular the importance of reliable energy sources.