Azerbaijan: A Friendly Country?

Azerbaijan is a country located in the southern part of the Caucasus, at the crossroads of Southwest Asia and Southeastern Europe. It has a unique culture influenced by its neighbours, including Russia, Georgia, Armenia, and Iran. Azerbaijan has seen an increase in tourism in recent years, thanks to the introduction of an e-visa system and its fascinating blend of cultures. However, it is important to stay vigilant and aware of potential risks when visiting Azerbaijan, as the country does have a history of terrorism and conflicts with neighbouring countries.

Azerbaijan is a valuable ally to the West, providing leverage against Russian and Iranian influence in the Caucasus

Azerbaijan's relationship with Russia is complex and, at times, damaging. Baku entered a strategic partnership with Moscow, declaring "Allied Relations" just two days before Russia invaded Ukraine. This alliance has expanded to include intelligence-sharing and hydrocarbon trade, allowing Azerbaijan to circumvent Western sanctions by shipping Russian oil and gas to Europe. Azerbaijan is also helping Russia evade sanctions and has been one of the top four destinations for Russian oligarchs during the war in Ukraine.

Azerbaijan's relations with Iran have been strained at times, with Tehran expressing concern over the use of Israeli-manufactured drones by the Azerbaijani armed forces in the disputed area of Artsakh, and the adoption of policies that tolerate or even endorse groups advocating the secession of Northern Iran, home to many ethnic Azeris. However, recent developments show a warming of ties between the two countries, including the signing of the Aras corridor agreement in October 2023, which is designed to connect Azerbaijan and its exclave, Nakhichevan, through Iranian territory.

Azerbaijan's role as a facilitator between Russia and Iran will bolster Russia's position in its war against Ukraine and enhance Iran's economic influence in South Asia. Experts predict that the total volume of cargo shipped by rail alone will reach at least 15 million tons per year before 2030.

Despite Azerbaijan's complex web of relationships with Russia and Iran, the country remains a valuable ally to the West. Its support for Ukraine and its opposition to Iranian and Russian influence in the Caucasus provide leverage for the West in the region.

Azerbaijan has a complex relationship with Russia and Iran, with Baku recently entering a strategic partnership with Moscow

Azerbaijan-Iran Relations

Azerbaijan and Iran share a largely intertwined history, with the territory of present-day Azerbaijan having been part of various Iranian/Persian empires throughout history. Both countries have a majority Shia Muslim population and strong cultural connections. However, political differences and conflicting alliances have created tensions between the two nations. Azerbaijan has become increasingly pro-Western aligned, forging strong ties with Israel, Turkey, and the United States, while Iran is largely pro-Russian and pro-Chinese due to its hostility towards the US.

The naming of the newly established Azerbaijan Democratic Republic in 1918, adopting the name "Azerbaijan" which had been used for the adjacent region in northwest Iran, created controversy and protests from Iranian political and intellectual elites. This naming dispute, along with Azerbaijan's promotion of the idea of a "Greater Azerbaijan," fuelled suspicions and rivalry between the two countries.

Another significant source of tension has been the conflict over the Nagorno-Karabakh region, with Iran providing vital backing to Armenia during the first Nagorno-Karabakh War (1988-1994). Azerbaijan's close relationship with Israel, including defence deals, has also angered Iran, leading to accusations of Israeli anti-Iran listening posts in Azerbaijan.

Despite these tensions, there have been periods of improved relations and cooperation between the two countries. Iran was one of the first countries to establish full diplomatic relations with Azerbaijan, recognising its independence in 1991 and establishing diplomatic relations in 1992. In recent years, there have been efforts to normalise relations, with high-level meetings and agreements in areas such as energy cooperation, defence, and cultural projects.

However, the relationship remains complex, and tensions have flared up again in recent years. In 2020, Azerbaijan accused Iran of supplying fuel to Armenian-held Nagorno-Karabakh, leading to a sharp reaction from Baku. Additionally, Iran's military drills near Azerbaijani districts and accusations of Iranian cyber-attacks have further strained the relationship.

Azerbaijan-Russia Relations

Azerbaijan's relationship with Russia is influenced by historical factors, as the territory of present-day Azerbaijan was occupied by Russia during the 19th century. Both countries have had periods of cooperation and conflict, with Russia playing a role in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict as a mediator through the OSCE Minsk Group.

Azerbaijan is a member of organisations that promote cooperation with Russia, such as the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) Partnership for Peace program. Additionally, Azerbaijan and Russia share a border, and both countries have embassies in each other's capitals.

In recent years, there have been efforts to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries. In October 2024, the Azerbaijani and Russian Prime Ministers, Ali Asadov and Mikhail Mishustin, discussed prospects for developing cooperation and reiterated their mutual willingness to continue working actively on bilateral agenda items.

In conclusion, Azerbaijan's relationships with both Russia and Iran are complex and influenced by historical, cultural, and political factors. While Azerbaijan and Iran share strong ethnic, religious, and cultural ties, political differences and conflicts over Nagorno-Karabakh have created tensions. Meanwhile, Azerbaijan's relationship with Russia involves cooperation through various organisations and strategic partnerships, but it is also shaped by historical conflicts and Russia's role in the Nagorno-Karabakh issue.

Azerbaijan helps Russia evade sanctions and has endorsed Russian mediation efforts between Armenia and Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan has a reputation in some American policy sectors as a secular outpost willing to stand up to Russia. However, in recent years, the country has increasingly oriented itself towards Russia. This is in stark contrast to a decade ago, when aides to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev used allegations of Kremlin ties to delegitimize his opposition in conversations with Americans.

Indeed, as discussions about imposing sanctions on Russia in response to its invasion of Ukraine were taking place, the Kremlin and its affiliated companies appeared to be preparing to use Azerbaijan to evade sanctions. For example, in 2024, Russia's Lukoil bought a 9.99% stake in Azerbaijan's Shah Deniz natural gas project from Petronas, a Malaysian oil and gas company, in a deal worth $1.45 billion. This made Lukoil a partner of the Azerbaijani state-owned oil firm SOCAR.

In addition, Azerbaijan has long described the Baku–Tbilisi–Ceyhan (BTC) pipeline to Western diplomats as a means to bypass Russia's hold on gas deliveries to the West. With Russia now expanding its stake in Azerbaijan's gas fields, it is crucial that the United States, the European Union, and individual countries do not sanction Russia symbolically while allowing it to benefit from its investment in Azerbaijan.

Russia has also supported the Azerbaijani Zangezur corridor plan, with a role for Russia as the guarantor, despite opposition from Armenia and Iran. Furthermore, Russia has facilitated peace talks between Azerbaijan and Armenia, culminating in a ceasefire on October 10, 2020, though this was later disregarded by both sides.

While relations between the Azerbaijani government and Russia tend to be lukewarm, many Azerbaijani opposition leaders have condemned Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. Ukraine has accused Azerbaijan of evading sanctions against Russia.

Azerbaijan has a history of authoritarian rule, with a lack of free and fair elections, suppression of political opposition, and imprisonment of journalists and activists

Azerbaijan has a complex history when it comes to its political landscape and human rights record, with a longstanding tradition of authoritarian rule. The country has been governed by strong centralized leadership, often characterized by a concentration of power in the executive branch and a marginalization of democratic institutions. This has resulted in a pattern of human rights abuses, including the suppression of political opposition, a lack of free and fair elections, and the imprisonment of journalists and activists.

The country's post-Soviet history has been dominated by the Aliyev family, with Heydar Aliyev, formerly the most highly ranked Azerbaijani member of the Communist Party during the Soviet era, becoming the country's president in 1993. He was succeeded by his son, Ilham Aliyev, in 2003, who continues to hold power. This dynastic rule has led to concerns about the country's democratic credentials and the suppression of alternative political voices.

Under the Aliyev regime, Azerbaijan has a history of rigging elections and suppressing political opposition. International observers have consistently reported irregularities and fraud in presidential and parliamentary elections, with a lack of transparency and fairness. The ruling party has been accused of using administrative resources to influence results, manipulating voter lists, and engaging in voter intimidation. Opposition candidates have faced harassment, arrest, and even physical attacks, making it extremely difficult for any genuine opposition to emerge and challenge the ruling party.

The country has also witnessed a severe crackdown on freedom of expression and the press. Journalists and media outlets critical of the government face harassment, censorship, and legal action. Several prominent journalists and activists have been imprisoned on dubious charges, such as tax evasion, drug possession, or even treason. This has created a climate of fear and self-censorship, with many media outlets practicing self-restraint to avoid repercussions. As a result, Azerbaijan consistently ranks low on press freedom indices, and the country's media environment is considered restrictive and hostile toward independent journalism.

The government has also targeted civil society organizations and human rights defenders. Laws regulating NGOs have been used to hinder their activities, and many international organizations have faced difficulties registering and operating in the country. Human rights defenders have been subjected to smear campaigns, travel bans, and even physical attacks. This has severely limited the ability of civil society to hold the government accountable and advocate for much-needed reforms.

The lack of democratic progress and respect for human rights in Azerbaijan is a significant concern for the international community. While the country has made efforts to improve its image through hosting international events and engaging in diplomatic initiatives, the reality for many Azerbaijanis is one of limited political freedoms and a lack of representation. For Azerbaijan to truly be considered a friendly and open country, significant reforms are needed to uphold democratic values and respect the fundamental rights and freedoms of its citizens.

Azerbaijan has a strong desire to increase tourism to the country, and crimes against visitors are rare

The country has a lot to offer visitors, from the modern architecture of Baku, including the famous Flame Towers, to the ancient rock paintings at Gobustan. The country's diverse landscape also offers opportunities for hiking in the Caucasus Mountains and exploring the mud volcanoes.

While Azerbaijan is generally very safe for tourists, it is important to be aware of cultural differences and potential risks. The country is ruled by a strongman, and the government punishes crimes against tourists harshly. However, it is still important to take precautions, such as staying vigilant in crowded places to avoid petty theft and being aware of drink-related scams. It is also essential to respect local customs and avoid discussing sensitive topics such as Armenia or criticising the ruling Aliyev family.

In addition to its efforts to increase tourism, Azerbaijan has also been working to strengthen its international relations. The country is a member of several international organisations, including the United Nations and the World Bank, and maintains diplomatic relations with many countries. However, its relationship with neighbouring Armenia remains tense due to the ongoing conflict over the Nagorno-Karabakh region.

Overall, Azerbaijan is a safe and welcoming destination for tourists, with a rich cultural heritage and diverse natural attractions. The country's strong desire to increase tourism and its focus on security for visitors make it an ideal choice for those seeking new and exciting travel experiences.

Frequently asked questions