Azerbaijan’s Growing Influence in Central Asia: A Focus on Relations with Kazakhstan
Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan Strengthen Bilateral Relations Through Strategic Partnerships
Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan have been actively fostering relations with Central Asian countries, particularly within the Turkic states in the region. President Ilham Aliyev’s recent participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, highlights Azerbaijan’s growing international influence and deepening ties with SCO member states.
The cooperation between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan extends to various sectors, with a particular focus on the development of transport corridors. The East-West and North-South transport corridors play a pivotal role in enhancing connectivity between Europe and Asia, positioning Azerbaijan as a key transportation and logistics hub in Eurasia.
The recent signing of a memorandum between ‘AzTelecom’ and ‘Kazakhtelecom’ to lay a fiber-optic communication line across the Caspian Sea underscores the commitment of both countries to enhancing regional connectivity through advanced telecommunications infrastructure.
In addition to economic cooperation, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan are actively expanding their collaboration within the Organization of Turkic States (OTS). The recent non-official Summit in Shusha focused on strengthening intra-Turkic relations, culminating in the signing of the Garabagh Declaration to foster stability and collaboration across various domains.
The energy sector also plays a significant role in the bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan. The roadmap signed between SOCAR and “KazMunayGaz” has created opportunities for expanding cooperation in oil processing, transit, and economic-commercial relations, further solidifying Azerbaijan’s role as a regional energy hub.
Furthermore, the prospects for exporting electricity from Europe through Azerbaijan’s territory were discussed during a trilateral meeting between Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan, resulting in the signing of a joint communiqué focusing on cooperation in renewable energy sources and the development of corresponding infrastructure.
The comprehensive and dynamic partnership between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan exemplifies a strategic alignment deeply rooted in historical ties, mutual economic interests, and shared regional aspirations. As pivotal players in regional and international forums, both nations continue to strengthen their cooperation across multiple fronts, offering promising prospects for continued mutual benefit and regional integration.
