The 28th ministerial meeting of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) was held in Russia, the Ministry of Energy of Azerbaijan reports. Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov, who participated in the event, touched on challenges in the global gas market, the growing role of natural gas in ensuring energy security, investment needs and Azerbaijan's gas policy. The minister emphasized the growing strategic importance of natural gas against the background of electrification, artificial intelligence and data centers, while noting that geopolitical tensions and security risks increase uncertainty in the market. He pointed out that limiting investments while demand is growing poses risks to future security of supply. "Investment decisions for tomorrow's reliable gas supply must be made today," said the minister.

The 28th ministerial meeting of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) was held in Russia, the Ministry of Energy of Azerbaijan reports. Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov, who participated in the event, touched on challenges in the global gas market, the growing role of natural gas in ensuring energy security, investment needs and Azerbaijan's gas policy. The minister emphasized the growing strategic importance of natural gas against the background of electrification, artificial intelligence and data centers, while noting that geopolitical tensions and security risks increase uncertainty in the market. He pointed out that limiting investments while demand is growing poses risks to future security of supply. "Investment decisions for tomorrow's reliable gas supply must be made today," said the minister.

Highly appreciating the Southern Gas Corridor as a successful model of cooperation, Parviz Shahbazov announced the expansion of Azerbaijan's gas production and export potential, and noted that the renewable energy policy supports the country's gas exports.

The minister noted the importance of the interaction within the GECF for maintaining stability in the global gas market, encouraging investments and strengthening the dialogue between producers and consumers.

Azerbaijan has been represented in the forum as an observer member since 2015.