Europe’s need for energy resources is increasing day by day and to meet this need European countries are eager to cooperate with Azerbaijan in this sphere. Discussions lasted for long years for transportation of Azerbaijani gas to Europe resulted in selection of Trans-Anatolia gas pipeline (TANAP), the safest route. Agreement “On sale of natural gas to the Republic of Turkey and transit of natural gas coming from the Republic of Azerbaijan via the territory of the Republic of Turkey and construction of independent pipeline for transportation of natural gas from the territory of the Republic of Turkey between Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Government of the Republic of Turkey” was signed on October 25, 2011 in Izmir, Turkey. Agreement “On Trans-Anatolia natural gas pipeline system between Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Government of the Republic of Turkey” was signed on June 26, 2012 in Istanbul, Turkey and on November 20, 2012 Milli Mejlis of the Republic of Azerbaijan ratified both agreements. Purpose for construction of TANAP project is to ensure transportation of natural gas produced from the second phase of Shah Deniz field of Azerbaijan to European markets. This project will change Azerbaijan into an important gas exporter for Europe.

It is planned to deliver the natural gas to Turkey and through Turkey to exit points located in the borders of Turkey with Bulgaria and Greece starting from Georgian-Turkish border and to other locations if agreed in future, the State Oil Fund reports. Implementation of this project is planned to be realized in four stages during 5 years and first stage is forecasted to finish in 2017. Of 16bn cubic meter Azerbaijani gas to be transported via TANAP project, 10bn cubic meter will be sold to Europe, while 6bn cubic meter to Turkey. The project will total 7bn USD. Diameter of the pipeline, which will be about 2 thousand km length, is to be 56 inch or 1,4m. According to the memorandum, Azerbaijani and Turkish participants will acquire 80% and 20% of the share respectively.

Accomplishment of this project, one of the largest energy projects of the 21st century, brought the two brotherly countries closer and helped them support each other in energy security of both countries. It also contributed to the development of strategic cooperation between Azerbaijan and Turkey that share common religion, language, culture and traditions.

Laman Khalilova,

"Azerbaijan Realities".