Azerbaijani Tankers Excluded from EU Sanctions Package

The European Union has made a significant decision to remove five Azerbaijani-owned tankers from its 20th sanctions package this week. The state-run Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Company (ASCO) has welcomed the move warmly.

In an official statement, ASCO explained that the decision was finalized following thorough coordination with the Azerbaijani president's office, the foreign ministry, the state energy company SOCAR, among other essential entities. Notably, one of the vessels was completely owned by ASCO, while the remaining four were properties of a joint venture between ASCO and SOCAR.

ASCO lauded the decision as a reflection of an objective evaluation based on international law and constructive dialogue. The company further emphasized its commitment to operating within the parameters of national legislation, international legal norms, and the prevailing international sanctions regimes.

(With inputs from agencies.)