The European Commission wants to cooperate with Azerbaijan in the field of gas in the future. According to a draft letter of intent, a minimum of 20 billion cubic meters of gas deliveries and an extension of the pipelines are planned annually. Slovenia and Italy have meanwhile concluded a solidarity agreement.
In order for the EU to actually cooperate with Azerbaijan in the future, the member states still have to agree. EU Energy Commissioner Kadri Simson plans to travel to the Asian country this month. Last year some eight billion cubic meters of gas came from Azerbaijan, for example via the so-called southern corridor to Italy. The draft now says that both Azerbaijan and the EU would work to extend the line. However, it is also stated that long-term contracts should be in line with the EU’s climate objectives.
Slovenia-Italy Agreement
Meanwhile, Slovenia and Italy unanimously ratified an agreement intended to ensure security of gas supply. Accordingly, in the event of disruptions, Slovenia can request Italy to supply gas to protected customers and vice versa, as reported by the STA news agency. These include households, health and educational institutions and social service providers. The mechanism is activated after a country has taken all measures on its territory to supply gas to these protected customers and once all unprotected customers have been shut down.
It is the first bilateral agreement of this kind for Slovenia, which is based on a 2017 EU regulation to ensure a safe gas supply. The government is soon planning similar agreements with Austria and Croatia.
Latvia bans gas imports from Russia
Meanwhile, the Latvian parliament banned gas imports from Russia on Thursday. In concrete terms, changes have been made to the Energy Act, which also stipulate, among other things, that natural gas reserves must be available. Russia was Latvia’s main natural gas source, but now the Baltic country gets most of its gas from neighboring Lithuania. In addition, it is planned to build its own terminal for liquefied gas. Russian gas must be abolished at least until January 1, 2023.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
