Discussions were held on expanding cooperation with the GECF and IRENA

As part of Baku Energy Week, Azerbaijan's Minister of Energy, Parviz Shahbazov, held meetings with Dr. Philip Mshelbila, Secretary General of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) and Francesco La Camera, Director General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

During the meeting with Philip Mshelbila, Secretary General of the GECF, the parties discussed current trends in the global gas sector and the growing role of natural gas against the backdrop of rising electricity demand. Particular emphasis was placed on the importance of natural gas in ensuring energy security and supporting the energy transition. The discussions also covered strengthening cooperation between Azerbaijan and the Gas Exporting Countries Forum, as well as Azerbaijan's participation in the Forum's upcoming Summit.

During the meeting with Francesco La Camera, the existing cooperation between Azerbaijan and IRENA was highly commended, particularly the expansion of joint initiatives in the field of renewable energy and the significance of projects being implemented in this area. It was noted that this partnership plays an important role in advancing the energy transition and the green energy agenda.

The meeting also included discussions on financing opportunities for green energy projects. Francesco La Camera expressed IRENA's readiness to jointly evaluate project initiatives in Central Asia and other countries in the region and to strengthen coordination with international financial institutions in order to expand the implementation of such initiatives. The parties also reviewed issues related to regional integration in renewable energy, the development of electricity grids, the expansion of energy storage systems, and electricity interconnectors.