A regional energy cooperation meeting held in Moscow on Friday focused on the potential impact of the 2024 Iran–Russia memorandum of understanding on Russian gas supplies to Iran and its implications for peace and security in the South Caucasus, IRNA repoeted on Friday.
Officials from Iran, Russia, Azerbaijan, Armenia and Georgia discussed strengthening regional energy ties under the 3+3 framework through existing pipeline infrastructure, gas and electricity swaps, and the development of new energy corridors.
Iran’s Deputy Oil Minister and National Iranian Gas Company CEO Saeed Tavakoli highlighted Iran’s extensive gas infrastructure and strategic location, saying existing pipelines could facilitate regional cooperation. He also proposed seasonal exchanges of gas and electricity to help countries meet peak demand and strengthen regional stability.
Russian Deputy Energy Minister Roman Marshavin said details of the Iran–Russia gas supply agreement, which envisages transit through Azerbaijan, were still being discussed behind closed doors. He suggested that regional countries share their energy strategies through 2050 to develop a common approach to energy security.
Azerbaijan’s SOCAR Deputy Vice President Elshad Nasirov expressed support for the plan, saying it could be implemented with limited investment by repairing existing pipelines and upgrading compression facilities. He also voiced hope that Tehran and Moscow would resolve outstanding issues and turn the memorandum into a formal contract.
Armenian officials expressed readiness to expand regional energy cooperation, while Georgian analyst Archil Sikharulidze said political differences and pressure from the United States and Europe were hindering Georgia’s participation in the 3+3 framework.
The framework brings together Iran, Russia and Turkey with Azerbaijan, Armenia and Georgia to address regional issues through cooperation among neighboring countries.