The Gulf Crisis Brings the Southern Gas Corridor Back to the Center of the Energy Agenda

Russia appears to be reassessing its role in the transport architecture of the South Caucasus amid a shifting geopolitical landscape that is casting doubt on Western connectivity initiatives and opening space for Moscow’s return to regional projects.

Azerbaijan exported an estimated 6.6–6.8 billion cubic metres (bcm) of natural gas in the first quarter of 2026, maintaining stable supply flows to Europe, Turkey and Georgia, as structural constraints continue to limit further expansion.

The government has approved a standardized framework for contracts governing the use of water resources for special purposes, formalizing relations between the state and private users amid growing pressure on the country’s water reserves.

Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree on April 14 to implement amendments to the laws “On Road Traffic” and “On Automobile Roads,” aimed at clarifying the regulation of vehicle towing, storage tariffs, and expanding the powers of state authorities.