The EU shares a strong interest in the long-term security and diversification of our energy supply and demand, European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso stated on the threshold of his visit to Azerbaijan, Trend reported.

Barroso said he intends to step up efforts for the realization of the Southern Gas Corridor which will directly supply gas from the Caspian region to the European consumers.

“I am sure that together we will create the necessary conditions for this strategic initiative to take place,” the agency quotes President of the European Commission.

Jose Manuel Barroso accompanied by Commissioner for Energy Gunther Oettinger will visit Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan on January 13-15.