August 2, 2025, marked a new chapter in Azerbaijan’s energy policy and international relations. The launch of Azerbaijani gas exports to Syria on this date further strengthens the South Caucasus country’s global role as an energy exporter and deepens its ties with the Middle East. This development is not just an economic move but also a strategic step backed by Azerbaijan’s balanced and forward-thinking foreign policy.

Axar.az reports that the foundation for this historic move was laid in July of this year. The meeting between the presidents of Azerbaijan and Syria at the Antalya Forum signaled a significant breakthrough in restoring and developing bilateral relations. Just a few days later, on July 12, the Syrian president’s official visit to Azerbaijan marked a new phase in ties. The discussions and agreements during the visit created a framework of cooperation beneficial for both nations.

The start of Azerbaijani gas exports to Syria within just three weeks is a historic event driven by humanitarian and economic motives. President Ilham Aliyev has repeatedly stated that Azerbaijan is ready to contribute to Syria’s post-conflict development and reconstruction. To that end, under the president’s instruction, a delegation led by Deputy Prime Minister Samir Sharifov, along with representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, visited Syria to explore the areas in which Azerbaijan could assist in the country’s reconstruction efforts. Based on these visits, future directions of cooperation were determined.

The development of Azerbaijan-Syria relations is also part of Azerbaijan’s broader Middle East policy. Just as Azerbaijan pursues an active policy toward Europe and Central Asia, it is also becoming increasingly engaged in the Middle East. Thanks to President Ilham Aliyev’s diplomacy, Azerbaijan is now seen as a reliable partner across the Middle East as well. This trust opens up new markets for Azerbaijani energy exports and enhances the country’s geostrategic importance.

One of the new areas of cooperation is the delivery of Azerbaijani gas to the Syrian market. Global demand for Azerbaijani gas has been rising in recent years, and opportunities for diversification are expanding. The country is now exporting gas not only to Europe but also to Middle Eastern countries. There is export potential toward Turkey and Iraq, and this was one of the main topics discussed during the Syrian president’s recent visit.

To date, Azerbaijan exports gas to 12 countries, mainly in Europe. Now, a new geographical direction is emerging: the Middle East. Syria can both import Azerbaijani gas and act as a vital transit country in the regional gas trade. This development could open up new energy routes for the entire Middle East.

There are promising prospects in this area. Although the gas pipeline connecting Syria to Jordan was damaged during the conflict, technical and financial resources for its restoration are being explored. Reviving this pipeline could make it possible to deliver Azerbaijani gas from Syria all the way to Egypt—unlocking even broader markets for Azerbaijan. In addition to this transit role, Azerbaijan is gaining new opportunities in electricity exports. With the development of renewable energy sources and the construction of new power plants, Azerbaijan’s electricity production capacity is rapidly growing. This increased capacity could open new export routes to the Middle East.

In conclusion, August 2 will be remembered as a turning point in Azerbaijan’s energy diplomacy and Middle East policy. Azerbaijan is not only solidifying its role as a reliable energy supplier but also reaffirming itself as a state contributing to peace and development in the region. This move is a clear example of Azerbaijan’s commitment to maintaining an active and independent foreign policy. The new cooperation, beginning with the export of gas to Syria, will be beneficial economically and strategically for both nations, deepening regional ties and supporting stability in the Middle East.

The start of gas exports to Syria proves that Azerbaijan has become a strong player in the Middle Eastern energy and political landscape and opens up bright new prospects for both Azerbaijan and the region.