Russia and Azerbaijan are fighting for the European gas market

Two Russian projects for gas supplies to Europe, the South and Turkish Streams, failed for various reasons. At the same time, the implementation of the Azerbaijani "Southern Gas Corridor" does not cause difficulties, which is confirmed by the meeting of ministers of various European countries within the framework of the Consultative Council in Baku.

Maros Shefchovic, Vice-President of the European Commission for Energy, once again reaffirmed the key and strategic importance of the Azerbaijani project. This is indicative, since Russia at one time refused to implement the South Stream project due to the EU's “non-constructive position”. Currently, Europe and the United States are supporting the Southern Gas Corridor, while Russia is pushing other similar projects.

Why is there a struggle for the European gas market? In addition to the financial benefit, for Russia, gas is a leverage in Europe that it would not like to lose. In addition, in order to supply gas to another promising market, China, an expensive pipeline must also be built, which is a distant prospect.

With the financing of the Southern Gas Corridor, according to Azerbaijani Energy Minister Natig Aliyev, all financial issues will be resolved by May. Confirmation also came from European financial institutions. In Baku, Shefchovic said that it is very important to implement the Southern Gas Corridor on time in order to avoid unnecessary costs, and Federica Mogherini noted that the project is vital for Europe. Therefore, European support is provided.