Azerbaijan may become new potential source of gas supplies to Ukraine

Azerbaijan may become one of the new sources of gas supplies to Ukraine in order to strengthen its energy security.

"We very much appreciate the cooperation between the oil and gas companies of Ukraine and Azerbaijan and are interested in its development. And what is important, Azerbaijan is interested in developing gas supply opportunities to Ukraine," Andriy Prokofyev, head of the account management department of the Gas Transmission System Operator of Ukraine (GTSOU), said following the meeting of Ukraine–Azerbaijan working group on cooperation in the energy sector.

To date, the transportation of natural gas from the Republic of Azerbaijan to Ukraine is possible through the territory of Turkey and then through the Trans-Balkan pipeline.

In August 2020, for the first time at the request of its clients, GTSOU carried out reverse-flow deliveries of gas through the Trans-Balkan gas corridor – from Greece through the GTS of Bulgaria and Romania to Ukraine, demonstrating the technical capability of the Trans-Balkan route.

As noted, since 2020, the interstate connection points of Ukraine and European countries have been operating in accordance with the requirements of the Third Energy Package of the EU with ensuring free access of third parties to capacities through auctions.

"The Gas Transmission System Operator of Ukraine continues to cooperate with partners from Romania and Moldova on the development of natural gas transportation along the Trans-Balkan route in order to increase import capacity which will provide even better conditions for cooperation with Azerbaijani partners," Andriy Prokofyev added.

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