Close Menu
  • English
  • Top Stories
    • News
    • Culture
    • Economy
    • Lifestyle
    • World
    • Environment
    • Health
    • Science
    • Sports
  • About Us
  • Advertising
  • Contact

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

News, investigations, and analysis — our top stories every morning to start your day right.

Illustration of the UK Royal Navy expansion with new ships and advanced technology. Image generated by AI.
“Ready for War”: This Bold UK Naval Expansion Puts 5,000 Extra Troops and 6 New Destroyers on High Alert Now
Illustration of Germany's asparagus season with white and green asparagus. Image generated by AI.
“White Gold Is Draining Us”: Germany’s Lithium Addiction Sparks Price Surge and Fierce Global Competition
Illustration of the BINGO radio telescope in the Brazilian hinterlands. Image generated by AI.
“All Eyes on the Cosmos”: China and Brazil Launch Groundbreaking Radio Telescope to Unravel the Secrets of Dark Energy
Facebook X (Twitter) RSS
Visegrád Post
Facebook X (Twitter) RSS
newsletter
  • Featured
  • News
    Illustration of the UK Royal Navy expansion with new ships and advanced technology. Image generated by AI.

    “Ready for War”: This Bold UK Naval Expansion Puts 5,000 Extra Troops and 6 New Destroyers on High Alert Now

    June 21, 2025 at 5:51 AM
    Illustration of the GCAP and American F-47 fighter jets operating in tandem as interoperable allies. Image generated by AI.

    “GCAP Faces Countdown Crisis”: This Next-Gen Warplane Races Against Time as American F-47 Plans Surge Ahead

    June 20, 2025 at 9:11 AM
    Illustration of new nuclear missile silos being constructed for the LGM-35A Sentinel program. Image generated by AI.

    “Air Force Sounds Alarm”: These Sentinel Nuclear Missiles Demand New Silos, Sparking Fears of Unseen Military Upgrades

    June 20, 2025 at 7:58 AM
    Illustration of Lockheed Martin facing challenges in the aerospace industry. Image generated by AI.

    “This Is the End for International Allies”: Lockheed Martin Closes Door on 6th-Generation Fighter Jet Collaboration, Sends Shockwaves Worldwide

    June 19, 2025 at 5:54 PM
    Illustration of Switzerland's strategic shift from American F-35 jets to European military alliances. Image generated by AI.

    “European Shockwave”: Switzerland’s Stunning Decision to Abandon American F-35 Jets Shakes the Global Military Aviation Industry to Its Core

    June 19, 2025 at 7:53 AM
  • Culture
    Illustration of a Viking woman and her loyal dog in a 1,100-year-old boat grave. Image generated by AI.

    “1,100-Year-Old Boat Grave” Unearthed: This Astonishing Discovery Reveals Loyal Dog Buried With Viking Woman, Shocking Archaeologists Worldwide in 5-Foot-Long Find

    June 18, 2025 at 8:55 AM
    Illustration of Boston Dynamics' Spot robots performing a dance routine on America’s Got Talent stage. Image generated by AI.

    “Robot Dogs Steal the Show”: These Dancing Machines Just Lit Up America’s Got Talent Stage With Moves That Left Judges Speechless

    June 16, 2025 at 9:47 AM
    Illustration of murals in a Tang Dynasty tomb depicting daily life and a Western figure. Image generated by AI.

    “Archaeologists Stunned by Discovery”: This Unexpected Find in Ancient Chinese Tomb Changes Everything We Knew About History

    May 23, 2025 at 2:03 PM
    Illustration of an ancient ceremonial temple unearthed beneath the sands of Peru. Image generated by AI.

    Lost Temple Emerges from Desert Sands: This Astonishing Discovery Could Solve a Major Historical Mystery and Rewrite History Forever

    May 23, 2025 at 12:54 PM
    Illustration of Juracanthocephalus daohugouensis, a prehistoric parasite with jaws, found preserved in an ancient lake. Image generated by AI.

    “Jurassic Nightmare Unleashed”: This Ancient Parasite Had Jaws and Lurked in Dinosaur Guts, Unveiling a Prehistoric Horror

    May 23, 2025 at 12:03 PM
  • Eco
    Illustration of Germany's asparagus season with white and green asparagus. Image generated by AI.

    “White Gold Is Draining Us”: Germany’s Lithium Addiction Sparks Price Surge and Fierce Global Competition

    June 20, 2025 at 5:55 PM
    Illustration of Europe's naval shipyard consolidation challenges and international collaboration. Image generated by AI.

    “Europe Is Drowning in Docks”: French Navy Chief Sounds Alarm Over Oversupply of Naval Shipyards

    June 20, 2025 at 10:10 AM
    Illustration of affluent investors engaging in diversified financial activities in Hong Kong. Image generated by AI.

    “Affluent Clients Are Back”: Standard Chartered Reports Surging Investments Flooding Into Hong Kong Amid Market Rebound

    June 20, 2025 at 5:49 AM
    Illustration of the complex dynamics of Hong Kong's taxi industry amidst regulatory changes. Image generated by AI.

    “No One Saw This Coming”: Hong Kong Faces Outrage as Calls Grow to Stop Massive Taxi Bailout Plan

    June 19, 2025 at 6:10 AM
    Illustration of the integration of artificial intelligence in military aviation, showcasing autonomous combat systems. Image generated by AI.

    “Pilots Aren’t Going Anywhere”: Dassault CEO Confirms Fighter Jets Will Keep Humans in Cockpits for at Least the Next 30 Years

    June 10, 2025 at 6:54 AM
  • Lifestyle
    Illustration of a serene Hong Kong apartment interior featuring rich timber hues and a cozy atmosphere. Image generated by AI.

    Wood Is the New Gold: Discover How This Natural Material Is Revolutionizing Hong Kong Homes with Quiet Luxury Appeal

    June 19, 2025 at 10:08 AM
    Illustration of using lemons as a natural cleaning agent for ovens. Image generated by AI.

    “This Oven Lemon Trick Is Pure Genius”: The Astonishing Cleaning Hack That’s Revolutionizing Kitchens and Making Everyone Want to Try It Now

    May 27, 2025 at 10:03 PM
    Illustration of Mark Zuckerberg's luxurious superyacht journey to Norway for a heliskiing adventure. Image generated by AI.

    “Zuckerberg’s 3,300-Mile Yacht Adventure”: Billionaire’s Lavish Helicopter Ride Up Snowy Mountain in Ultra-Luxury Skiing Extravaganza

    May 25, 2025 at 10:49 AM
    Illustration of Charmin's innovative wavy perforation design on toilet paper. Image generated by AI.

    “This Changes How You Poop Forever”: Astonishing Toilet Paper Innovation Set to Transform Daily Hygiene for Billions Worldwide with Unmatched Cleanliness and Comfort

    May 23, 2025 at 6:27 PM
    Illustration of the Burj Azizi skyscraper in Dubai, set to become the world's second tallest building. Image generated by AI.

    “Prepare to Be Stunned”: This Towering 2,717-Foot Skyscraper Set to Rise in Dubai Challenges Global Architectural Limits

    May 23, 2025 at 2:14 PM
  • World
    Illustration of a small French commune dealing with the impact of a thorium discovery and international resource negotiations. Image generated by AI.

    “France Misses Out as China Strikes Deal”: Tiny Cantal Town Discovers Thorium While Chinese Firm Holds Rights, Leaving Locals Empty-Handed

    June 19, 2025 at 4:58 PM
    Illustration of U.S. aircraft carriers USS Nimitz and USS George Washington facing off against China in the Pacific. Image generated by AI.

    “U.S. Aircraft Carriers Face Off Against China”: Tensions Skyrocket in Pacific as Experts Warn of Escalating Danger

    June 19, 2025 at 4:05 PM
    Illustration of China's Containerized Sea Defense Combat System disguised as a shipping container. Image generated by AI.

    China’s Secret Weapon Revealed: These Hidden Container Missiles Pose Immediate Threat to US National Security

    June 18, 2025 at 6:09 PM
    Illustration of the G7 summit overshadowed by escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. Image generated by AI.

    “Trump Demands Immediate Evacuation”: Tehran on Edge as G7 Delivers Dire Warning Against Nuclear Threat to Global Peace

    June 18, 2025 at 5:00 PM
    Illustration of China's rapid expansion of its nuclear arsenal and its impact on global security. Image generated by AI.

    China Surpasses America and Russia: This Alarming Report Reveals Surging Nuclear Warheads in Just 12 Months, Raising Global Tensions

    June 18, 2025 at 10:09 AM
  • Green
    Illustration of Hong Kong testing alternatives to single-use plastics in restaurants. Image generated by AI.

    “Dine Plastic-Free in 60 Days”: Hong Kong Restaurants Revolt Against Plastic Waste with Radical Trials Sparking Global Curiosity

    June 19, 2025 at 8:59 AM
    Illustration of the transformation of plastic waste into clean hydrogen fuel using sunlight. Image generated by AI.

    “Turning Plastic into Power”: South Korea’s Shocking Breakthrough Converts Bottles to Hydrogen with Solar Energy, Igniting Global Curiosity

    June 15, 2025 at 3:50 PM
    Illustration of the environmental impact of AI-driven data centers on global electricity demand. Image generated by AI.

    “UN Sounds the Alarm”: AI Explosion Triggers Shocking 150% Spike in Hidden Emissions at Big Tech Titans Like Never Before

    June 15, 2025 at 6:12 AM
    Illustration of a machine transforming ambient air into clean gasoline. Image generated by AI.

    “Miracle Device Turns Air Into Gasoline”: Discover This Groundbreaking Machine Set to Revolutionize the $3 Trillion Fuel Industry Forever

    June 14, 2025 at 6:10 PM
    Illustration of LEGO tires made from recycled materials as part of a sustainability initiative. Image generated by AI.

    “LEGO Shocks the Industry”: World’s Largest Tire Maker Unveils This Radical Shift That Could Reshape Toy Manufacturing Forever

    June 14, 2025 at 9:46 AM
  • Health
    Illustration of TikTok's impact on teen mental health and misinformation spread. Image generated by AI.

    “Hidden Peril on TikTok Exposed”: Experts Reveal a Destructive Danger Lurking for Teenagers on the Popular Platform

    June 11, 2025 at 4:54 PM
    Illustration of AI-driven robots enhancing patient care at a Taiwanese hospital. Image generated by AI.

    “Robot Dogs Patrol Hospital Wards”: Taiwan Deploys Humanoid Helpers in Bold Move to Revolutionize Patient Care Operations

    June 6, 2025 at 7:52 AM
    Illustration of the faint light emitted by human cells due to Ultraweak Photon Emission. Image generated by AI.

    “Humans Glow in the Dark”: This Astonishing Phenomenon May Fade Forever When We Die, Revealing a Stunning Secret

    May 23, 2025 at 1:56 PM
    Illustration of the link between infant sleep patterns and autism spectrum disorder. Image generated by AI.

    “Babies’ Sleep Holds Shocking Clues”: This New Discovery Links Infant Sleep Patterns to Autism, Changing Everything We Knew

    May 23, 2025 at 12:54 PM
    Illustration of microplastics infiltrating human organs and their potential impact on health. Image generated by AI.

    “Microplastics Are a Health Time Bomb”: This Alarming Pollution Crisis Could Endanger Millions with Invisible Threats Lurking in Every Corner

    May 23, 2025 at 11:20 AM
  • Science
    Illustration of the BINGO radio telescope in the Brazilian hinterlands. Image generated by AI.

    “All Eyes on the Cosmos”: China and Brazil Launch Groundbreaking Radio Telescope to Unravel the Secrets of Dark Energy

    June 20, 2025 at 5:07 PM
    Illustration of a new carbide ceramic capable of withstanding extreme temperatures in aerospace applications. Image generated by AI.

    “China Breaks Heat Barrier”: Stunning Success as Revolutionary Shield Shatters 1,800°F Limit in Hypersonic Flight Test

    June 20, 2025 at 4:09 PM
    Illustration of a Chinese satellite transmitting data to Earth using a laser. Image generated by AI.

    “Blazing Fast Chinese Satellite”: This Astonishing Feat Outpaces Starlink by 5 Times Using a Laser from 22,369 Miles Up

    June 19, 2025 at 6:53 AM
    Illustration of Hithium's Infinity Block 5MWh battery energy storage system during an open-door fire test. Image generated by AI.

    “Firestorm Breaks Loose”: China Unleashes World’s First Open-Door Battery Inferno Test in Staggering 2,000°F Blaze

    June 18, 2025 at 6:49 AM
    Illustration of jadarite, a mineral with a composition similar to Kryptonite, highlighting its potential in Europe's clean energy transition. Image generated by AI.

    “Earth’s Kryptonite Found”: Jadarite Could Power 90% of Europe’s Electric Cars and Reshape the Future of Global Energy

    June 17, 2025 at 5:07 PM
  • Sports
    Illustration of Wunderbar triumphantly crossing the finish line at Sha Tin. Image generated by AI.

    “Wunderbar Stuns Rivals”: Astounding Comeback as Racing Star Dominates 6-Furlong Class Two Victory at Sha Tin, Reigniting Fans’ Passion

    June 20, 2025 at 6:46 AM
    Illustration of a paraglider caught in a cloud suck ascending to a high altitude. Image generated by AI.

    “Dragged to 28,000 Feet”: Paraglider Survives Terrifying Cloud Suck Ordeal That Nearly Ended in Instant Death

    June 7, 2025 at 10:12 AM
  • English
Visegrád Post

R. Hüseynov: “Azerbaijan decided not to align itself with some power bloc”

Gabriel CruzGabriel CruzSeptember 26, 2023 at 6:23 AM8
Share Twitter Facebook LinkedIn WhatsApp Email Copy Link
Follow Us
Google News
Share
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn WhatsApp Email Copy Link

Interview with Rusif Hüseynov, director and co-funder of the Topchubashov center, an Azerbaijani think tank based in Baku: “While other post-Soviet countries have been desperately seeking EU membership, the Azerbaijani side decided not to align itself with some power bloc in order not to irritate our northern neighbour. We have seen its consequences in Georgia and now in Ukraine.”

In Poland, at the 32nd Economic Forum, Ferenc Almássy met with Rusif Hüseynov, director of an Azerbaijani think-tank, willing to promote the national interests of Azerbaijan, and bringing to the attention of European citizens the point of view of this often disregarded country.

Meanwhile, there is an increasing interest towards Azerbaijan in Europe, especially since the beginning of the Russian so called “military special operation” in Ukraine that led European leaders to give up on Russian hydrocarbons – even though it is progressively done, and Russian oil and gas are still flowing to the European Union, the amount has dramatically diminished already.

In that context the European Union, and more specifically some member states, have increased their cooperation with Azerbaijan. Hungary, Romania, Austria, Italy, Bulgaria, Greece but also non-EU members such as Albania and Serbia, became important buyers of Azerbaijani resources.

For the Visegrád Post, Ferenc Almássy asked Rusif Hüseynov about Azerbaijan’s strategy regarding the European Union, its ongoing project regarding gas, oil, electricity and services export, and what it wants from the European Union.

Ferenc Almássy: Obviously the current situation is a profitable evolution for Azerbaijan. From your point of view, what consequences will it have for your country and what is to be expected regarding the development of bilateral cooperation? What is your strategy regarding Europe and the European Union?

Rusif Huseynov: Azerbaijan and the European Union have strong political and economic ties. The EU is Azerbaijan’s biggest trade partner, and up until the late 2000s Azerbaijan had been pursuing closer integration with the transatlantic family.

Although this policy was later changed in favour of the policy of balancing, Azerbaijan continued collaboration with the EU and individual EU member-states. According to President Aliyev of Azerbaijan, one third of the EU or nine countries are Baku’s strategic partners.

This includes countries such as Hungary, and Italy. This means that

Azerbaijan relies not only on Brussels, but also on various capitals when it comes to political, geopolitical, and economic decisions.

The EU is important for Azerbaijan in terms of geopolitics as well. Azerbaijan has been a member of the Eastern Partnership, although this project is now – let’s put it this way – in crisis, but for different reasons, because three of the Eastern Partnership countries are now heading towards a closer relationship with the EU. They are seeking membership. Belarus has suspended its participation. Armenia is in the Russian camp. So I guess we should reformat the Eastern Partnership, and hopefully during this reformatting or resetting, Azerbaijan will also play a constructive role.

Nowadays, Baku and Brussels have been negotiating a new framework. According to the officials who conduct these negotiations, 90% of the treaty is ready. There are several items which are being discussed, and once they are resolved, we will have a new treaty between Azerbaijan and the European Union.

The backbone of this whole collaboration between the two parties is energy security, or Azerbaijan’s role in the EU’s security architecture.

All Azerbaijani pipelines go westward and ship Azerbaijani oil and gas to the European markets.

Ferenc Almássy: We’re talking about the Trans Adriatic Pipeline, the South East Europe Pipeline…

Rusif Huseynov: We have the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline, we have the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan gas pipeline. All of them end in Turkish energy hubs, but the main clients are the European companies, so the products end up in the European markets. And I also mean the recent Southern Gas Corridor, which is a combination of TANAP, the Trans-Anatolian Pipeline, and TAP, the Trans Adriatic Pipeline. The Southern Gas Corridor replaced the Nabucco project, once a promising initiative, which had never been materialized.

The Southern Gas Corridor was Azerbaijan’s initiative. If I am not mistaken, back in the day when Azerbaijan was putting a lot of effort into realizing this whole initiative, there was a lot of scepticism, especially in the European capitals, and many stakeholders did not provide a sufficient amount of the investment in this mega-project. You also have to consider that it was a time when the EU countries were enjoying Russian oil and gas.

The situation has changed with the Russian invasion of Ukraine. In order to find a substitute for Russian gas, the EU structures, as well as individual EU member countries, decided to switch their attention to various suppliers. Azerbaijan is among the top suppliers which they have approached. Now there is more and more attention, more and more interest in these TAP and TANAP projects.

There is this myth – I don’t know who coined and circulated it – that Azerbaijan is claiming that it will replace the Russian gas supply at the European level. It’s not true. Azerbaijan does not have that capacity, and we actually never claimed we would be able to substitute fully for Russia. It’s impossible.

However, Azerbaijan is important because it is ready to – and can replace – Russian gas in several EU member countries and in countries which are located in the EU’s immediate neighbourhood.

I’m pointing to Italy, Croatia, Bulgaria, and Greece, as well as some of the western Balkan countries such as Albania. And there are now negotiations about extending the supply of Azerbaijani gas into new markets such as North Macedonia and Romania, and Hungary is also interested. So if Azerbaijan can somehow replace Russian gas in several European countries, it is already a big relief for Brussels.

Ferenc Almássy: Yes. Hungary, for example, is still heavily relying on Russian energy supplies but has to find a way out of this situation. I guess this is the reason why Azerbaijan is currently the best hope for Hungary to achieve this.

Just to go further on this topic, how are you working with the various EU member states, or non-member states from the Balkans? Was this a big change following the so-called “Special Military Operation”, or were you already working on diplomatic and trade agreements with these countries for years? What are you doing to develop your partnerships?

Rusif Huseynov: Before answering your next question, just a quick remark about the previous one. You referred to Hungary’s attempts to deal with Azerbaijan. When it comes to imports of gas, it’s not only about the amount of gas you receive. It’s also about diversity. The more diverse your suppliers are, the more secure you feel. This is why the European countries are trying to diversify their gas providers. I’m sure they are also talking with Qataris, with the Americans – trying to receive liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the different suppliers. This is important in terms of their security architecture, including energy security.

Now, back to your question about Azerbaijan’s foreign policy in the western Balkans, which I refer to as Azerbaijan’s pivot to the Balkans. For many years we were preoccupied with our own region, which is the Caucasus or the post-Soviet space. But now, due to the geopolitical changes,

Azerbaijan, whether it likes it or not, has to turn its attention both eastward, to Central Asia, and westward, to the Balkans and Central Europe.

When it comes to Central Asia, this is understandable, because the Middle Corridor has received a historic chance given that the traditional supply routes through Russia have been disrupted due to the current war. The Middle Corridor has a historic chance to substitute for the Russian route at some level – not fully, but at some level. So Azerbaijan, together with the Central Asian countries, is enthusiastic to play an important role in bridging East and West.

As for the western direction, again, whether we like it or not,

we have become a stakeholder in the Balkans because we are supplying gas to the Balkan countries through the Trans Adriatic Pipeline. It is Azerbaijan’s brainchild and we are becoming an actor in that region.

This is why Azerbaijan is quite active, and if you check the visits of Azerbaijani officials to the Balkan countries, they have intensified in the past few years. We are becoming a geopolitical actor in the western Balkans.

Just like its foreign policy vis-à-vis individual EU countries, Azerbaijan also approaches each Balkan country individually

and without putting all its eggs in the same basket. For instance, we have great relations with Serbia, and because there are energy issues, there are trade and construction ties, plus Azerbaijan and Serbia share the same concern over secession. We have never recognized Kosovo. The Serbians have never recognized the so-called Nagorno-Karabakh Republic. So there are some points of common interest.

We approach Croatia differently, individually. The same goes for Albania, Bosnia, or Greece, for instance. Azerbaijan and Turkey are the most important nations for each other when it comes to their foreign policy priorities. But at the same time, despite the Turkish-Greek problems, Azerbaijan tries never to irritate Athens and attempts to maintain positive relations, and this actually produces good results. This individual approach does work.

For instance, the most recent United Nations Security Council meeting was called at the initiative of the Armenian side because they wanted to adopt some anti-Azerbaijani resolution involving Karabakh. Azerbaijan tried to balance Armenia’s attempts, and one of our supporters at the UN Security Council was Albania. The Albanians favoured Azerbaijan’s position, and I think it’s due to the positive foreign policy that Azerbaijan is conducting in the Balkans.

Ferenc Almássy: What about Hungary, Romania, and Italy?

Rusif Huseynov: Italy is the first trade and export partner of Azerbaijan and has been as such for at least 20 years as the largest importer of Azerbaijani oil and gas. Azerbaijan is Italy’s largest trade partner among the countries of the South Caucasus. Azerbaijan accounts for more than 90% of Italy’s trade in this region.

While playing a neutral role in geopolitical developments in the Caucasus, Italy has always defended Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity and thus is considered a friendly and strategic partner by Baku. Currently, more than 100 Italian companies are operating in industry, construction, trade, agriculture, communication, services, and other fields in Azerbaijan. Several companies are also involved in the restoration and construction of the liberated Karabakh, which means a lot not just economically but also politically to the Azerbaijani side.

Romania is the second country in the world and the first among the EU member states to recognize the independence of Azerbaijan, when it did in December 1991. The two countries enjoy excellent political and diplomatic relations which were upgraded in 2009 to a Strategic Partnership. And again Romania became the first EU country in doing so with Azerbaijan.

Bucharest has always supported tighter EU/NATO relations with Baku, and advocated them. As for the most recent developments, earlier this year, Azerbaijan’s SOCAR and Romanian Romgaz signed an agreement, according to which Azerbaijan will provide 1 billion cubic meters of gas between in 2023-2024.

In case of Hungary, there are positive and growing relations at the level of the political elites, which push further political, economic and cultural ties. Among the most tangible forms of cooperation which I can quickly recall are the direct and cheaper Baku-Budapest flights, the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship programme, which enable 200 Azerbaijani youngsters to get educated in Hungary annually.

We also welcome the Hungarian policy on and active involvement in the liberated Karabakh: there are discussions to engage some Hungarian firms in the mega-projects which are designed to revive this conflict-torn but beautiful region. Most recently, Magyar cities of Gyöngyös and Tiszavasvári became sister cities with the Azerbaijani towns of Şuşa and Ağdam from Karabakh. But more than this, Hungary enjoys enormous amount of soft power within Azerbaijani society, believe it or not.

Ferenc Almássy: How do you explain this?

Rusif Huseynov: The Azerbaijanis consider Hungarians to be fellow Turks. While some people including myself realize that the present-day Hungarians belong to another linguistic family, but this Hunnic heritage in Pannonia plays an important role in shaping Azerbaijani sentiments toward Magyarország.

Ferenc Almássy: That’s really interesting. So you’re saying that in Azerbaijan, this Turanism is really active in the population? It exists. It’s a real feeling.

Rusif Huseynov: It’s a real feeling, and it has an explanation, because during the 1990s, when the Azerbaijanis suffered from the Karabakh War, displacement, and ethnic cleansing, we needed allies. We needed some countries that could be close to us emotionally, linguistically, or historically.

Hungary therefore holds a special place in the Azerbaijani world-view.

This is why I believe that it is quite wise of Hungary to join the Organization of Turkic States. Again, the Hungarians are not linguistically within the Turkic family, but the presence of Magyars, who have also claimed the heritage of Turkic-speaking Huns, in the Turkic integrationist projects is quite symbolic and important.

Ferenc Almássy: We were talking about oil and gas, but it’s not only those that Azerbaijan provides to the EU, as Azerbaijan, in cooperation with Georgia, Romania, and Hungary, is about to set up the world’s longest underwater power line which aims to provide Europe with as much as one gigawatt of energy. It’s a huge project and a very ambitious one.

This will bring so-called “green energy,” because you have fields of offshore wind turbines in the Caspian Sea. Is this something that you did only for export to Europe? Is it something that has been motivated by the expectation that, as you said earlier, the European Union will be your biggest trade partner? Is it something that you are doing for market purposes? Or was this project something that you were already doing on your own? And is this energy being primarily produced for you or primarily for export?

Rusif Huseynov: For many years we could not focus on renewables, for obvious reasons. We had our own fossil-based resources being exported to Europe. But in the past few years, there has been much more attention given to renewable energy. I think

several new mega projects are being planned in Azerbaijan, mostly with Saudi and Emirati investors.

The Emirati-based Masdar, one of the world’s leading clean energy companies, has signed joint development agreements with the State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOCAR), for onshore wind and solar projects, and integrated offshore wind and green hydrogen projects, with a total combined capacity of 4 gigawatts (GW). We cannot allocate our own money to this at present because nearly the biggest portion of our budget is now being spent on the restoration of Karabakh.

Since the war, it has been absorbing much of our energy and much of our budget. So we definitely need external funds for that, as well as expertise.

It’s been calculated that since Azerbaijan is a small market, and our domestic consumption demands can be met with only a small amount of electricity, gas, and oil, most of the energy that we will produce in the coming years will be available for exporting. So this project involving Azerbaijan, Georgia, the Black Sea, Romania, and Hungary is a very ambitious project. It of course has political and geopolitical dimensions. It brings together four countries in the South Caucasus and the EU, so I tend to see it more as a geopolitical project.

At the same time, I look forward to reading its feasibility report, because the economic dimension is important. It will be implemented if it’s economically viable. Hopefully, the parties which are now investing a lot of their reputations in this project will be able to make it viable for all the stakeholders involved. But if this project is successful, it will be another thing which unites not only Azerbaijan, but the whole South Caucasus with the European Union.

Ferenc Almássy: So that’s one more step towards linking Azerbaijan and the European Union. If it succeeds, should we then expect other projects of a similar nature?

Rusif Huseynov: Yes. For instance, the Digital Silk Way is an ambitious project implemented by Azerbaijani companies and aimed to connect Azerbaijan to the global internet network. The project envisages the implementation of big infrastructure projects, laying of terrestrial and subsea fibre optic backbone cables to form a digital corridor between Europe and Asia, as well as the construction of a regional Data Center in Azerbaijan and Georgia. This mega digital telecommunication corridor passing the territories of various countries, i.e. Georgia, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan will be the most effective and shortest route with the high bandwidth and least latency in data transmission and boost the regional cooperation and development. We traditionally speak about oil and gas, but as you can see, new dimensions and new aspects of collaboration are also on the table.

Ferenc Almássy: This shows that there are more and more ties being built between the EU and Azerbaijan. This brings us to my next question. Europe will develop a bigger dependency on your energy and services, while you become more dependent on the EU as a client. So there will be a natural building up of interdependency. You know that the EU has a strong ideological way of handling its partners and neighbouring countries. It has led to a major crisis with Russia, among other things.

In this regard, how is Azerbaijan getting ready to face the inevitable pressures that will come from the EU for political normalization and societal changes according to EU standards?

Rusif Huseynov: As the 21st century brings us so many changes in such a quick mode, we have to reform ourselves, our country, and everything that surrounds us. In this context, changes and reforms are important and should be continuous. At the same time, I don’t want them just because the EU demands them. It should come from within and meet the domestic demands.

As for the EU and its treatment of its partner states, in Azerbaijan neither the political elite nor the community of experts has strong illusions. We have learned to live with the conditions of Realpolitik, if I can say so, because we are the only country that is sandwiched between Russia and Iran. So we have always been very pragmatic and realistic. And while other post-Soviet countries have been desperately seeking EU membership,

the Azerbaijani side decided not to align itself with some power bloc in order not to irritate our northern neighbour. We have seen its consequences in Georgia and now in Ukraine.

While other Eastern Partnership countries have signed relevant treaties with the EU, Azerbaijan has never hurried to sign and accept the conditions that might harm – let’s say domestic agriculture – despite the pressure from Brussels. This is because one of the stumbling blocks between Azerbaijan and the EU when it comes to this treaty or framework is agriculture, or subsidies in agriculture. So there are some issues in which Azerbaijan can firmly hold and defend its position.

Plus, as I said earlier, we have learned to live with a realistic approach, because we also have our own resentment towards the EU, since whenever Georgia, Ukraine, or Moldova were discussed at various EU levels, the territorial integrity of those countries was accepted without any hesitation or ambiguity. But

when it came to Karabakh or Azerbaijan’s integrity, we never heard unambiguous statements from the EU institutions. They would always call our situation “complicated.” This is why we are more or less immune to external pressures – and I’m talking not only about the EU, but also pressures from our immediate neighbours.

Ferenc Almássy: This brings us to my last question. You talked about the fact that you are stuck between two major geopolitical actors, namely Russia and Iran. You are also very close to Turkey, but you obviously have better relations with them. And while this is not the main point of the interview, there is a topic we cannot avoid – especially now that there has been a renewed conflict in Karabakh. What guarantees could you offer today to your European partners about remaining a long-term, trustworthy provider of energy in terms of the present situation, which seems to be long-lasting and not easy to resolve? Some also speak of the possibility of a bigger regional conflict. I hope it won’t happen, but the possibility cannot be dismissed. I also assume that this topic comes up in your discussions with your European partners. How do you answer them?

Rusif Huseynov: The answer is very simple. Azerbaijan has been consistent in its energy policy. 15 or 20 years ago, when we were building our first pipelines, they were directed westwards. They did not go to the north or the south. We have always kept our promises when it comes to energy exports to European countries. Remember that I told you earlier that when there was a lot of scepticism about this so-called Southern Gas Corridor, many Western stakeholders did not want to invest in it, but Azerbaijan used its own money to build a geopolitical infrastructure which the EU is now using with great pleasure.

Azerbaijan’s current geopolitical or economic strategy is based on the attempt to make our country a bridge state which would connect East and West through different projects: the Middle Corridor, connectivity in energy.

There is still some chance to involve Turkmenistan in exporting its gas to Europe. The probability of that happening is getting lower and lower, but there is still some chance. And as I said, Internet cables between East and West – the Digital Silk Way – are going through Azerbaijan. So we’re trying to become a bridge. Our previous energy projects had a long-term strategy, and this is still being followed. The political implications are huge.

Because of this consistent policy, I therefore think Azerbaijan has already proved itself to be a reliable partner. Right now we have some instability in our region because of the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict, but I actually think the EU can play an important role as a mediator, offering its expertise and facilitation.

What Azerbaijan wants vis-à-vis Armenia is a mutual recognition of territorial integrity, including Karabakh as a part of Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan wants to unblock the transport and communication lines.

There has been an offer to Armenia regarding accepting them as part of the Middle Corridor.

The whole idea is to establish interdependency between Armenia and Azerbaijan in order to avoid new conflicts. The EU can be very helpful in this,

because the post-Second World War vision of the European family is based on this interdependency. So if the EU comes to our region with such expertise, with their good government standards, and with their money, I think we can solve our problems with Armenia, however deep they are.

Did you like it? 4.6/5 (28)

Follow on Google News Follow on X (Twitter)
Share. Twitter LinkedIn Facebook WhatsApp Email Copy Link
Previous ArticleThe 32nd International Economic Forum in Karpacz will take place on 5-7 September 2023
Next Article Migration Conference Marks Key Moment in V4 Alliance
Gabriel Cruz
  • X (Twitter)

Gabriel Cruz is a U.K.-based journalist at Visegrád Post, where he has reported for five years on politics, society, environmental affairs, and global developments. A graduate of City, University of London’s journalism program, he combines sharp analysis with a strong commitment to justice and sustainability. His work explores the forces shaping our era — from shifting power dynamics to planetary challenges. Contact: [email protected]

Related Posts
Illustration of the UK Royal Navy expansion with new ships and advanced technology. Image generated by AI.

“Ready for War”: This Bold UK Naval Expansion Puts 5,000 Extra Troops and 6 New Destroyers on High Alert Now

Illustration of the GCAP and American F-47 fighter jets operating in tandem as interoperable allies. Image generated by AI.

“GCAP Faces Countdown Crisis”: This Next-Gen Warplane Races Against Time as American F-47 Plans Surge Ahead

Illustration of new nuclear missile silos being constructed for the LGM-35A Sentinel program. Image generated by AI.

“Air Force Sounds Alarm”: These Sentinel Nuclear Missiles Demand New Silos, Sparking Fears of Unseen Military Upgrades

Illustration of Lockheed Martin facing challenges in the aerospace industry. Image generated by AI.

“This Is the End for International Allies”: Lockheed Martin Closes Door on 6th-Generation Fighter Jet Collaboration, Sends Shockwaves Worldwide

View 8 Comments
8 Comments
  1. Paulinetranquility on September 26, 2023 6:25 AM

    Interesting perspective! But how can Azerbaijan balance its energy exports without aligning with a power bloc? 🤔

    Reply
  2. fabianorigin on September 26, 2023 7:03 AM

    So Azerbaijan wants to stay neutral, but isn’t that a bit risky with all these geopolitical tensions?

    Reply
  3. marina_maze on September 26, 2023 7:40 AM

    I appreciate Azerbaijan’s strategy to remain independent. It’s a bold move in today’s world. 🌍

    Reply
  4. Anthony9 on September 26, 2023 8:19 AM

    Great article! But what about the human rights issues in Azerbaijan? How does that fit into their EU strategy?

    Reply
  5. Faith on September 26, 2023 8:58 AM

    Not sure if staying neutral is the best idea. What happens if Russia decides to pressure Azerbaijan?

    Reply
  6. Terry_stream on September 26, 2023 9:34 AM

    Thank you for the detailed insights! It’s fascinating to see Azerbaijan’s approach to the EU.

    Reply
  7. michaeljourney on September 26, 2023 10:12 AM

    Interesting read, but I can’t help wonder if Azerbaijan’s neutrality will last. 🤨

    Reply
  8. Ben1 on September 26, 2023 10:51 AM

    Why does Azerbaijan think that staying out of power blocs is beneficial in the long run?

    Reply
Leave A Reply Cancel Reply

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

News, investigations, and analysis — our top stories every morning to start your day right.

Illustration of the UK Royal Navy expansion with new ships and advanced technology. Image generated by AI.
“Ready for War”: This Bold UK Naval Expansion Puts 5,000 Extra Troops and 6 New Destroyers on High Alert Now
Illustration of Germany's asparagus season with white and green asparagus. Image generated by AI.
“White Gold Is Draining Us”: Germany’s Lithium Addiction Sparks Price Surge and Fierce Global Competition
Illustration of the BINGO radio telescope in the Brazilian hinterlands. Image generated by AI.
“All Eyes on the Cosmos”: China and Brazil Launch Groundbreaking Radio Telescope to Unravel the Secrets of Dark Energy
News by category
  • Top Stories
  • News
  • Culture
  • Economy
  • Lifestyle
  • World
  • Environment
  • Health
  • Science
  • Sports
Information
  • About Us
  • Advertising
  • The editorial team
  • Contact
  • Legal Information
  • Privacy and Cookie Policy

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

News, investigations, and analysis — our top stories every morning to start your day right.

Facebook X (Twitter) RSS
© Visegrad Post. All rights reserved.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.