Sustainable Development Goals at Baku State University.

A scientific seminar titled “The Energy Security Policy of the Republic of Azerbaijan: Transition from Traditional Energy to Green Energy” has been held at the Faculty of History of Baku State University, organized by the Department of Modern and Contemporary History of European and American Countries. The seminar was delivered by Member of Parliament and Professor Elman Nasirov.

Dean of the Faculty of History, Ibrahim Zeynalov, stated that energy security is one of the principal components of national security within the modern system of international relations. He provided participants with information on the essence of Azerbaijan’s energy policy, emphasizing that the possession of energy resources, their effective management, and their secure transportation to global markets significantly influence the economic and political standing of states.

In his speech, Professor Elman Nasirov noted that the oil strategy established by National Leader Heydar Aliyev laid the foundation for Azerbaijan’s energy security policy. He emphasized that the “Contract of the Century,” signed in 1994, marked a new stage in the country’s economic development and accelerated Azerbaijan’s integration into the global energy market. As a result, major energy projects such as the Baku–Tbilisi–Ceyhan oil pipeline, the Baku–Tbilisi–Erzurum gas pipeline, and the Southern Gas Corridor were implemented, gaining strategic importance for both Azerbaijan’s and Europe’s energy security.

The presentation highlighted that global climate change, increasing environmental challenges, and the growing interest in renewable energy resources have led to the formation of new approaches in energy policy. In line with these developments, Azerbaijan has identified the “green energy” strategy as one of its priority directions alongside its traditional energy policy. It was noted that the development of renewable energy resources and the establishment of relevant infrastructure currently occupy an important place in the country’s energy security policy.

Professor Elman Nasirov also stressed that under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, particular attention has been paid to the development of renewable energy sources. Azerbaijan’s rich solar, wind, and hydropower resources were noted as key factors strengthening the country’s green energy potential. Special emphasis was placed on the declaration of the Karabakh and East Zangezur economic regions as “green energy zones,” which has become an important step in this direction. It was further stated that environmentally friendly energy projects implemented in the liberated territories contribute to regional reconstruction and sustainable development.

During the seminar, it was also noted that Azerbaijan actively participates in international cooperation on green energy projects. The wind energy potential of the Caspian Sea creates broad opportunities for exporting alternative energy to European markets. Recent initiatives aimed at establishing green energy corridors with Georgia, Bulgaria, and Hungary in the western direction, as well as with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in the eastern direction, were described as important strategic steps. It was emphasized that these initiatives may contribute to shaping a new geopolitical landscape across the Europe–South Caucasus–Central Asia region.

The seminar additionally addressed the importance of green energy technologies in creating new employment opportunities, promoting innovation, and preserving ecological balance. It was highlighted that reducing carbon emissions contributes to Azerbaijan’s fulfillment of its international environmental commitments.

The seminar continued with extensive discussions, during which participants’ questions were answered.

SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals)