“For many years, Azerbaijan has been a reliable partner to numerous countries and peoples in securing energy supply. Today, Azerbaijan’s natural gas is exported to 16 countries, and that export begins in Georgia,” declared Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev at a joint press statement with Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze.

Aliyev further noted that Georgia is the first country on the route through which Azerbaijan exports its energy resources to international markets.

“Today we discussed new opportunities and new investment projects, both in the direction of Azerbaijan and of Georgia. We may also consider joint investments in third countries. This was part of our conversation: the scale of things, regional security, and the current state of affairs. Today’s meeting was no exception. We also addressed the emerging realities in the South Caucasus. The countries of this region must remain focused on peace, stability, and security, for in various parts of the world these principles are being violated; in our region, they must remain unshakeable. There must be no losses, and such events must not touch our region. We shall present ourselves as a region of peace, stability, and cooperation.

I must particularly emphasise today that Georgia plays a role of the utmost importance. Prime Minister, you spoke of the peace process developing between us and Armenia. The agreements we are signing represent a significant step forward, though they are not sufficient in themselves; every step going forward must be reinforced. That is precisely the purpose these meetings and visits serve. We initiated our dialogue with Armenia through Georgia’s mediation, and I am grateful to the Georgian government for facilitating this process.

For many years, Azerbaijan has been a trusted partner to numerous countries and peoples in the field of energy security. Today, our natural gas is exported to 16 countries, with Georgia serving as the starting point and transit route for these exports. Georgia is the first country on the route by which Azerbaijan delivers its energy to international markets; everything flows through Georgia. Similarly, oil and natural gas resources from the Caspian Sea are transported into Georgia via Azerbaijan. We discussed the existing infrastructure. Over the past two decades, the Baku–Tbilisi–Ceyhan pipeline has been operating successfully, and the Southern Gas Corridor is functioning well. This infrastructure is of great importance to many countries. We have also created, developed, and expanded transport corridors. The Middle Corridor passes through Azerbaijan and Georgia. For us, this is one of the most important and most valued arteries, upon which we place great hopes for further strengthening and development.

In summary, our agenda is both extensive and diverse. New topics, ideas, and projects are continually being introduced, and we are committed to advancing all of these through our collective efforts. Our bilateral relations can serve as a model for all our neighbouring states, for they are founded on mutual respect and mutual trust. We cherish our shared interests and our friendship; this is a relationship of good neighbourliness and brotherhood. I am certain we shall always walk this path of success together. I wish the brotherly Georgian people peace, stability, and prosperity,” declared Ilham Aliyev.

Note: The quotes are translated from Georgian simultaneous translation.