EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met with President Ilham Aliyev in Baku on June 30 to strengthen bilateral ties [1, 2].

The visit underscores the European Union's strategic pivot toward the South Caucasus to ensure energy security and support regional stability. This diplomatic push comes as the EU seeks to diversify its energy sources and solidify a historic peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan [2, 3].

During the talks, officials said the expansion of trade and the implementation of the recent Armenia-Azerbaijan peace pact were priorities [1, 3]. The economic relationship between the two entities has grown significantly, with the EU now accounting for more than 40% of Azerbaijan's overall trade [1].

Energy connectivity remains a central pillar of the partnership. Natural gas exports from Azerbaijan to the EU have surged by almost 65% in recent years [1]. This increase aligns with earlier cooperation efforts announced on March 11, when the EU reinforced its security and energy ties with the nation [4].

Beyond energy, the discussions focused on trade expansion and regional connectivity. The EU's engagement in the region is intended to foster long-term stability, and economic integration through the Southern Gas Corridor and other infrastructure projects [2, 5].

The diplomatic activity in the region has been frequent this year. Earlier in May, Igor Sergeyenko met with Azerbaijan Prime Minister Ali Asadov to outline key focuses for trade and economic ties [6].

“The EU now accounting for more than 40% of Azerbaijan's overall trade”

The EU's deepening relationship with Azerbaijan represents a strategic balance between economic necessity and geopolitical stabilization. By securing a steady flow of natural gas and supporting the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace pact, the EU is attempting to reduce its energy dependence on other volatile regions while anchoring the South Caucasus in a framework of diplomatic stability.