David Woodward

Former President of BP Azerbaijan

The main and foremost reason for our trust and confidence in investing here is the result of your six-year leadership, which has ensured peace and stability in Azerbaijan. These significant successes have been made possible precisely as a result of your visionary leadership. After all, today is of particular importance as the embodiment of a new, remarkable stage in the development of the country’s oil and gas industry. A stage that will bring to life your far-sighted ideas about the use of Azerbaijan’s natural resources for the bright future of its people and the region as a whole. Another significant initiative that has benefited from your valuable leadership is the implementation of the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan project, which has achieved significant progress and is being implemented in full accordance with the schedule in all three countries. According to the decision of the Cabinet of Ministers dated April 7, the process of payment of land compensations has been started and is expected to be completed by June. At the same time, the construction phase of the project has already begun in all three countries. The BTC project will not only be an important contribution to the export of Azerbaijani oil to the world market. At the same time, it will accelerate economic development in the region and further strengthen allied relations, which are important for issues of regional peace and security. I know that these are issues you personally value. With your continued support, we are creating a business experience that meets global standards in the region, and I believe that in the conditions of close cooperation, we are fully prepared to achieve all our goals. We are confident that these projects will be a significant contribution to your visionary idea of transforming Azerbaijan into a leading force in the global energy market and will greatly contribute to attracting investment to the country. On this beautiful day, on behalf of Azerbaijan, its people, and its partners, I wish you good health and endless success in your tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to the happiness and development of your people and the region.