Aliyev urges peace, cites gas contracts and possible Council of Europe exit at Shusha forum

Baku’s President Ilham Aliyev told participants at the Shusha Global Media Forum that securing long‑term gas contracts is essential for Azerbaijan to increase its hydrocarbon output. He emphasized that stable, multiyear agreements with international buyers would provide the financial certainty needed to expand production capacity and attract further investment in the country’s energy sector.

Aliyev also indicated that Azerbaijan is weighing the possibility of withdrawing from the Council of Europe, a move that would mark a significant shift in the nation’s diplomatic posture. The president’s remarks come amid ongoing tensions with European institutions over human‑rights concerns, and the potential exit could affect Azerbaijan’s engagement with European legal and political frameworks.