Why is Italy seeking closer energy ties with Azerbaijan, according to Premier Meloni?

Italy is seeking closer energy ties with Azerbaijan to address a supply squeeze caused by the Iran war, as Azerbaijani gas and oil — accounting for 16% and 17% of Italy’s imports respectively — have been 'crucial' for Italy’s energy security since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022; Meloni emphasized the need to deepen this partnership not only in terms of volumes but also in the quality of industrial cooperation, including defense and security collaboration.

What recent diplomatic efforts has Italian Premier Meloni undertaken to secure energy supplies?

After the US-Israeli war on Iran disrupted Middle Eastern energy deliveries, Meloni has been touring Algeria, Gulf countries, and most recently Azerbaijan, in a bid to secure additional energy supplies — culminating in her meeting with President Ilham Aliyev in Baku, where she vowed closer cooperation with Azerbaijan as part of a broader energy diplomacy effort.

Italy’s Meloni Vows Closer Ties With Azerbaijan in Energy Push

May 4, 2026

Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni pledged to deepen energy cooperation with Azerbaijan to secure oil and gas supplies amid global geopolitical tensions. This partnership aims to bolster Italy's energy security following disruptions from conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

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