The Council of the European Union has officially removed five vessels belonging to Azerbaijan from its sanctions list, following a decision adopted on Tuesday. The delisted ships include the "Zaqatala," owned by the Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Company (ASCO), as well as the "Shusha," "Garabagh," "Khankendi," and "Zangazur," which are operated by a joint venture between ASCO and the State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOCAR).
Operative Information Center-OMM reports, citing ASCO, that the decision effectively cancels all previously imposed restrictions against these specific vessels. According to official statements, the resolution was achieved through coordinated diplomatic and legal efforts involving the Presidential Administration, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport, ASCO, and SOCAR.
The vessels in question had been leased to third parties under long-term charter agreements, and their operations have consistently adhered to international regulations and sanction requirements. Azerbaijani officials characterized the EU's decision as a result of an objective approach based on international legal norms and constructive dialogue between Baku and Brussels. ASCO, as a state-owned international shipping entity, reaffirmed its commitment to operating in strict compliance with national legislation, international law, and global sanction regimes.
This development is seen as a significant diplomatic success for Azerbaijan, ensuring the unhindered movement of its maritime assets in international waters. ASCO plays a pivotal role in the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor), which connects Asia and Europe through the South Caucasus. The removal of these vessels from the sanctions list is expected to further strengthen Azerbaijan's position as a reliable logistics and energy hub in the region.
