Montenegro intends to further deepen relations with Azerbaijan in natural gas supplies and the renewable energy sector.
This was stated by Montenegro's Vice President and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović in an interview with Trend, commenting on the results of his recent visit to Baku.
“Montenegro and Azerbaijan have maintained friendly and partnership relations for many years. My visit to Baku aimed to strengthen these relations, develop bilateral ties, and continue open political dialogue. In meetings with Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov, Speaker of the Milli Majlis Sahiba Gafarova, Prime Minister Ali Asadov, and Finance Minister Samir Sharifov, we noted that relations between our countries are at a high level, developing with positive dynamics, and cooperation is expanding in areas of mutual interest,” the minister emphasized.
Ibrahimović noted that the Baku meetings provided a valuable platform for discussing mechanisms to deepen cooperation.
“Main attention was focused on the economy, particularly tourism, investments, and energy. Coordination in foreign policy and global issues were also discussed. We expressed our support for the Azerbaijan-Armenia Joint Declaration signed in Washington on August 8, 2025, as an important step for regional peace and stability.
During the visit, I presented Montenegro's foreign policy priorities, including our commitment to European Union integration. I mentioned our goals to complete membership negotiations by the end of 2026 and be fully ready by 2028, as well as recent achievements such as closing five chapters in Brussels,” the Vice President added.
According to him, the visit was successful and productive, creating a solid foundation for the long-term development of cooperation between the two countries.
Montenegro's Interest in Azerbaijani Gas
“Montenegro is interested in importing Azerbaijani gas and views this as part of its strategy to strengthen energy security and diversify supply sources. We consider the energy sector one of the priorities for development and are ready for experience exchange in gas as well as renewable energy,” Ibrahimović noted.
He said that during the visit, future steps in energy cooperation were discussed, including the organization of intersectoral meetings.
“These issues will be continued in the near future at the meeting of the Joint Commission on Economic Cooperation. It is particularly important to emphasize the significance of the Ionian-Adriatic Pipeline (IAP) project. In Montenegro's Energy Strategy until 2030, IAP is indicated as the most realistic option for gasification.
IAP is planned as the final segment of the Southern Gas Corridor and could deliver Shah Deniz gas via TAP to the region, including Montenegro. The project has received Common Interest Project status from the EU and enjoys strong support. Since gas infrastructure does not yet exist in Montenegro, the implementation of IAP will open significant investment opportunities, ensure stable supplies, and contribute to environmental protection,” the minister explained.
Partnership in Green Energy
“I see cooperation between Montenegro and Azerbaijan in green energy and sustainable development as highly promising. Taking into account our Paris Agreement commitments and EU candidate status, this area has a mutually complementary character. Our strategy is built on decarbonization of the energy sector, green transition, and alignment with the EU's green agenda,” Ibrahimović stated.
He mentioned Montenegro's plans for investments in renewables, improving energy efficiency, and connecting to regional networks.
“Azerbaijan's experience in both traditional and green energy is of great value to us. We also consider gas cooperation important in terms of reducing emissions and ensuring energy stability. Intensifying political dialogue and concrete agreements can strengthen this partnership for regional resilience,” the Vice President added.
Development of Diplomatic Relations and Future Events
Ibrahimović emphasized that diplomatic relations are constantly developing and being strengthened through bilateral agreements. He particularly praised the signing of the memorandum on consular cooperation as a successful step.
He noted the importance of mutual support in multilateral platforms, including the UN, as well as the potential for activating inter-parliamentary ties and high-level visits.
“2026 will mark the 20th anniversary of Montenegro's independence, and this jubilee will create opportunities for new initiatives to strengthen cooperation. Agreements in areas such as agriculture, energy, and double taxation are planned.
The 4th meeting of the Economic Cooperation Commission, scheduled for the first half of March, will define concrete steps in energy, tourism, investment, education, and digitalization,” the minister said.
He also highlighted potential in culture, science, and direct flights, citing the agreement between ADA University and the Diplomatic Academy as an example.
Mutual Investments
“Montenegro appreciates Azerbaijan's role as a regional economic center. Our participation in the investment forum demonstrates this. The restoration of Karabakh creates new opportunities in the region,” Ibrahimović noted.
He listed energy, infrastructure, green energy, real estate, and tourism as promising areas. He presented the Portonovi complex as a successful example of Azerbaijani investment.
“The 2011 agreement in tourism provides a foundation. The number of Azerbaijani tourists is steadily increasing. Direct flights will further strengthen these ties. We expect Azerbaijani investments in infrastructure, medical tourism, and sustainable projects in the northern regions,” the Vice President added.
He emphasized that NATO membership and EU prospects stabilize the investment environment.
Montenegro's Role in Azerbaijan-NATO Relations
Ibrahimović highly appreciated Azerbaijan's partnership with NATO, recalling the November 2025 visit as an important event.
“Montenegro is ready to cooperate with Azerbaijan in strengthening defense and civilian capabilities, including in the counter-terrorism training center and emergency programs,” the minister concluded.
https://news.day.az/azerinews/1807325.html