On April 19, Parviz Shahbazov, Azerbaijan’s Energy Minister, announced the public presentation of the Nur project—a gas supply initiative for the Albanian city of Korça—funded by Azerbaijani investment and implemented by the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR).

During the event, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure and Energy Belinda Balluku participated in the official presentation of the project.

In a statement on X, Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov emphasized that the Nur project marks “the first step in developing Albania’s gas infrastructure” and highlighted its significance in diversifying Albania’s energy supply, supporting climate goals, and expanding Azerbaijan’s gas export markets.

Notably, in November 2024, SOCAR signed a memorandum of understanding with Albania’s Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy and Albgaz to develop a natural gas distribution system in Korça. The project, estimated to cost approximately €21 million, aims to supply gas to households and businesses, with construction scheduled to begin in 2025 and completion expected by 2027. SOCAR plans to invest in the construction of gas infrastructure, including an LNG terminal in Vlora, a connection to the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP), and new compressor stations. The final investment decision for this project is anticipated in 2025, marking a significant step in Albania’s gasification efforts. In February 2025, SOCAR opened an office in Albania to oversee and manage its energy projects in the country. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to Albania, Anar Huseynov, and representatives from Albania’s Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy and Albgaz.