US-Azerbaijan forum recognises strategic energy partnership

The US-Azerbaijan: Vision for Future two-day forum, held in Washington, began on 30 April 2014. The event was attended by representatives of US Congress, US Senate and House of Representatives of different states, US Administration, scientific and research centres, as well as officials from Azerbaijani governmental bodies, members of Azerbaijan-US Interparliamentary Relations Working Group and representatives from SOCAR, including President Rovnag Abdullayev.

During the forum, a session was held on the “Eurasian Energy Corridor and Energy Security: Azerbaijan’s Strategic Role”. Speakers at the session included Senators Mark Begich, Mark Warner and Charles Schumer, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Diplomacy Amos Hochstein, SOCAR Vice-President Elshad Nassirov, Congressman of Texas Steve Stockman and former congressman Dan Burton.

SOCAR Vice-President Elshad Nassirov highlighted the strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and the USA. He praised energy cooperation between the two countries. Senator Charles Schumer noted Azerbaijan’s role in energy cooperation and security. Former congressman Dan Burton stressed the role of SOCAR in ensuring Europe’s energy security.

Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Diplomacy, Amos Hochstein, said the USA was committed to ensuring energy security for national security. He spoke about the successful implementation of the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) oil pipeline. Mr Hochstein said that thanks to the efforts of the Azerbaijani government and SOCAR, and support of the USA, another milestone achievement was made on December 2013 when the final investment decision was signed. According to Hochstein, the USA should support the laying of the gas pipeline as it will not only transport 10 billion m3 of gas, but also has potential for an additional gas supply in the future. This will lead to expansion of infrastructure construction and will be a key factor in ensuring European energy security. He thanked Azerbaijan for its close partnership, expressing confidence in future continuation of the cooperation.

Adapted from press release by Rosalie Starling

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