Elchin Amirbayov, the Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan on Special Assignments, has stated that there is significant potential for expanding cooperation between Baku and Rome across various sectors. According to Operative Information Center-OMM, Amirbayov made these remarks in an interview with the Italian newspaper "La Repubblica."
"Our countries have been linked by a multifaceted strategic partnership since 2020. The upcoming visit of the Italian Prime Minister to Azerbaijan confirms this. We believe there is high potential for strengthening cooperation in many areas, primarily in the energy sector, where Italy is our main partner," Amirbayov stated. He noted that in 2025, Azerbaijan supplied 9.5 billion cubic meters of natural gas to Italy, which remains the primary destination for Azerbaijani oil exports. In total, 12.5 billion cubic meters of gas were supplied to 10 European Union (EU) countries last year, marking a 53% increase compared to 2021.
Addressing the expansion of the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP), Amirbayov emphasized that the current capacity of the Southern Gas Corridor is fully booked and is now viewed within the context of Europe's overall energy architecture. He noted that the first phase of expansion is already underway; since January, TAP has increased its annual throughput capacity by 1.2 billion cubic meters, with 1 billion cubic meters destined for Italy. Further increases will require additional investments in production and transport infrastructure, which aligns with the strategic interests of the EU by strengthening diversification and energy security.
Regarding the agreements reached during the sixth meeting of the Italy-Azerbaijan intergovernmental commission, Amirbayov reported that the two nations have agreed to develop an action plan for bilateral economic partnership. "The action plan will serve as a roadmap for the development of the economic partnership between Italy and Azerbaijan. It envisions 65 events across 18 priority areas for 2026-2027, including energy, the 'green transition,' digitalization, investments, transport, industry, agriculture, science, education, and culture," he added.
Amirbayov also discussed the peace process with Armenia, suggesting that 2026 could be a decisive year for the final legal formalization of peace and the complete resolution of the former conflict. Furthermore, he highlighted the construction of a second Catholic church in Baku, dedicated to John Paul II and scheduled for completion in 2027, as a testament to Azerbaijan's commitment to multiculturalism and religious tolerance.
Commenting on the TRIPP ("Trump Route") project, Amirbayov warned that escalation in the Middle East could negatively impact regional connectivity and energy infrastructure. He emphasized that the TRIPP project, which is part of the broader Zangezur corridor, is vital for strengthening peace and developing transport links between Azerbaijan, Armenia, Asia, and Europe. This initiative aligns with the regional vision supported by US President Donald Trump to enhance global trade routes. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is scheduled to arrive in Azerbaijan for a one-day visit on May 5.
