Sri Lanka explores energy sector cooperation with Azerbaijan's state oil firm

Sri Lanka and Azerbaijan have signalled interest in broadening cooperation in the energy sector following high-level discussions in the Azerbaijani capital. Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath met with Rovshan Najaf, President of the State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOCAR), on October 15 to explore avenues for bilateral engagement in energy development.

The meeting was held during the seventh Summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia, which brings together regional and international stakeholders to discuss matters of mutual interest. The timing provided an opportunity for the two nations to advance discussions on energy cooperation at the ministerial level.

Such energy partnerships could potentially address Sri Lanka's ongoing efforts to diversify its fuel sources and secure stable energy supplies. Azerbaijan, a significant energy producer in the South Caucasus region, has positioned itself as a reliable supplier to international markets.

The talks reflect Sri Lanka's broader strategy of strengthening diplomatic and economic ties with energy-producing nations across Asia, particularly as the island nation continues to address its energy security needs and economic recovery priorities.

Photo: Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath (left) shakes hands with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, July 2025. Mark Cristino, European Commission Audiovisual Service, via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0).