Azerbaijan is weighing a withdrawal from the Council of Europe, President Ilham Aliyev revealed during the Shusha Global Media Forum on Monday.

The potential exit marks a significant shift in Baku's institutional alignment, coming as the country navigates complex geopolitical dynamics on its borders.

Aliyev used the platform to outline a dual-track strategy: pursuing regional stability while recalibrating international ties.

He emphasized that peace remains achievable despite the proximity to active conflict zones, signaling a diplomatic opening that could reshape energy security calculations for European buyers.

On the energy front, the president stressed the necessity of long-term gas contracts to justify further production expansion.

This comment underscores Baku's intent to secure offtake commitments before committing capital to new infrastructure, a move that directly impacts supply outlooks for European markets.