site.btaPresident Iotova, Azerbaijan's President Aliyev Discuss Energy Cooperation

Deepening energy cooperation between Bulgaria and Azerbaijan was discussed by Bulgarian President Iliana Iotova and her Azerbaijani counterpart Ilham Aliyev. The two held talks on the sidelines of the 62nd Munich Security Conference, Iotova's press secretariat reported here on Saturday.

President Aliyev highlighted Bulgaria’s strategic role not only as a recipient of energy supplies but also as a transit country for Europe.

The Bulgarian head of State stressed that one of the key messages of the Munich Security Conference is the achievement of Europe’s energy independence. Iotova pointed to the need for active Azerbaijani participation in the construction of the necessary energy infrastructure in Europe.

“For Bulgaria, participation in two key projects is important – the Solidarity Ring, which is to deliver gas from Azerbaijan through Bulgaria to Romania, Slovakia and Hungary, as well as the Caspian Sea – Black Sea – Europe Green Energy Corridor,” the Bulgarian President said. She underscored Bulgaria’s significant role in Europe’s energy security due to its key geographical position as a transit country for Eastern and Central Europe, as well as the increased interest in the Black Sea region. Iotova also noted Azerbaijan’s interest in building a network of optical cables in the Black Sea.

During the meeting, President Iotova emphasized the active cultural cooperation between Bulgaria and Azerbaijan, highlighting Azerbaijan’s contribution to the restoration of the Trapezitsa Fortress historical complex, as well as the upcoming implementation of the Shusha Park project in Veliko Tarnovo (Northcentral Bulgaria). The Bulgarian head of State thanked the Azerbaijani side for its active efforts to promote the Bulgarian language and culture in Azerbaijan.