The Czech Republic plans to import up to 2 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year from Azerbaijan, with deliveries potentially starting between 2028 and 2029.

Axar.az reports, citing Czech media, Minister of Industry and Trade Karel Havlicek stated during a visit to Azerbaijan that the agreement has not yet been formally signed, but the contract is already “promised” and at a very advanced stage of preparation.

Havlicek also noted that if the Czech Republic wants a favorable price, it should expect a long-term contract of 10 to 15 years. He added that Azerbaijan’s gas is already supplied to multiple EU countries, and the Czech Republic would become the 11th European importer.

Earlier, Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis said in Gabala following talks with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev that Czech energy company CEZ is seeking a long-term gas supply deal with Azerbaijan.

The Czech side also highlighted that energy cooperation is already well established, as Azerbaijan currently accounts for approximately 42% of Czech oil imports, making it one of Prague’s key energy partners.

Havlicek further stressed that Azerbaijan is a highly sought-after gas supplier, noting that many countries are “waiting in line” for access to its exports, while Czechia is already considered a reliable partner in the oil sector.