General Outlook on Turkey-Azerbaijan Relations

The relationship between Turkey and Azerbaijan has been characterized by close political ties and cooperation, particularly since Azerbaijan gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Here are some key political developments that have shaped their bilateral relationship:

• Historical Ties: Both Turkey and Azerbaijan have Turkic origins, with their populations speaking different Turkish dialects and descending from the common Turkic tribes that migrated from Central Asia centuries ago. This shared ethnic heritage forms the basis of their political cooperation and cultural affinity. Additionally, the perception of Armenia and Armenians as a threat by both states is one of the fundamental components of their shared historical memory.
• Diplomatic Relationship: Turkey was among the first countries to recognize Azerbaijan’s independence following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. This early recognition laid the foundation for strong diplomatic relations between the two countries. Later, a multidimensional and comprehensive cooperation was developed, propagated with the phrase “two states, one nation,” used to describe the two countries and their peoples.
• Strategic Partnership: Turkey and Azerbaijan have often referred to their relationship as a “strategic partnership” due to shared cultural, historical, and geopolitical interests. Both countries view each other as key allies and cooperate closely on various regional and international issues.
• Energy Cooperation: Energy cooperation has been a significant aspect of the bilateral relationship. Projects such as the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) oil pipeline and the Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline (TANAP) have strengthened ties between the two countries, with Turkey serving as a crucial transit route for Azerbaijani energy exports.
• Military Cooperation: Turkey and Azerbaijan have developed close military ties, including defense cooperation agreements and joint military exercises. Turkey has provided military training and equipment to Azerbaijan, and both countries have conducted joint military drills aimed at enhancing their defense capabilities. The most important aspect of military cooperation is to act together in the context of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict or in a possible future war with Armenia.
• Cultural and Educational Exchanges: Cultural and educational exchanges between Turkey and Azerbaijan have also been significant. Both countries promote the teaching of their respective languages and cultures, and there are numerous exchange programs for students and academics.
• Regional Cooperation: Turkey and Azerbaijan have collaborated on various regional initiatives, particularly within the framework of organizations such as the Turkic Council and the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO). They have also supported each other on regional issues, including the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
• Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict: The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict has been a central issue in Turkey-Azerbaijan relations. Turkey has been a vocal supporter of Azerbaijan’s interests, and in connection with this conflict, it has been effectively imposing an embargo on Armenia for nearly thirty years by closing its land border. In 2020 and 2023, Turkey expressed strong support for Azerbaijan during the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War, providing diplomatic, moral, and military support.

Overall, the political relationship between Turkey and Azerbaijan has been characterized by mutual support, cooperation, and shared interests, with both countries collaborating closely on various fronts.

The relationship between Turkey and Azerbaijan has deep historical roots, stemming from shared cultural, linguistic, and ethnic ties. Both Turkey and Azerbaijan have Turkic origins, with their populations descending from the same Turkic tribes that migrated from Central Asia centuries ago. During the height of the Ottoman Empire, the territories that comprise modern-day Azerbaijan were part of the broader Turkic and Muslim world under Ottoman influence.

Following the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917, the three Caucasian countries —Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia— experienced a brief period of independence. During this time, the Ottoman Empire recognized the independence of these nations and signed peace and friendship treaties with each. The treaty with Azerbaijan, signed on June 4, 1918, allowed for military assistance from the Ottoman Empire upon request.

In accordance with this treaty, the Azerbaijani government, led by Mehmet Emin Resulzade, requested military aid from the Ottoman Empire to liberate Baku from occupation and to halt the advance of the Bolsheviks towards their capital, Ganja. The Ottomans responded positively to this request, and Enver Pasha, one of the perpetrators of the Armenian Genocide, established the Caucasus Islamic Army, which was dispatched to Azerbaijan under the command of Nuri Pasha. The Caucasus Islamic Army succeeded in entering Baku on September 15, 1918. Following this progress, the Azerbaijani parliament relocated from Ganja to Baku, declaring Baku the new capital of the republic.

However, the conclusion of World War I and the Ottoman Empire’s defeat led to the signing of the Armistice of Mudros, which required Ottoman forces, including the Caucasus Islamic Army, to withdraw from the region. Subsequently, in 1920, Baku was captured by Russian forces, marking the beginning of Azerbaijan’s 70-year period under Soviet rule. During the Soviet era, Azerbaijan’s connections with the outside world were managed through Moscow, similar to other Soviet republics.

This period was pivotal in shaping Azerbaijan’s modern history, highlighting the geopolitical significance of the Caucasus region and the enduring relationship between Azerbaijan and Turkey. Throughout the Soviet era, Azerbaijan remained part of the Soviet Union while Turkey emerged as a new republic under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.

After Azerbaijan gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Turkey was among the first countries to recognize its independence and establish diplomatic relations. This marked the beginning of a new chapter in their bilateral relationship. Diplomatic relations between the two states were established on January 14, 1992. The Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Republic of Turkey was opened in August 1992. Azerbaijan has Consulates General in Istanbul and Kars. The Embassy of Turkey in Azerbaijan was established in January 1992. Turkey has Consulates General in Nakhchivan and Ganja.

Since gaining independence, Turkey and Azerbaijan have referred to their relationship as a “strategic partnership” due to shared geopolitical interests, particularly in the Caucasus region. They have cooperated closely on various political, economic, and security issues, cementing their ties through bilateral agreements and high-level visits. Strengthening and developing relations with Turkey is one of the main components of the foreign policy of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

It should be particularly noted that the relations between Azerbaijan and Turkey are based on the principles expressed by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, “The joy of Azerbaijan is our joy, its sorrow is our sorrow,” and by Azerbaijan’s Prime Minister Heydar Aliyev, “one nation, two states,” are dynamically developing in all areas, including the political sphere.

Turkey’s role in the First Karabakh War in the early 1990s was characterized by strong support for Azerbaijan through diplomatic, economic, and military assistance while avoiding direct military involvement. Turkey refused to recognize the independence of Nagorno-Karabakh and the territories gained by Armenian forces. This position aligned with its broader policy of supporting Azerbaijan’s claims over the region. In response to the conflict and the occupation of Azerbaijani territories, Turkey took several economic and political measures against Armenia. This included closing its border with Armenia in 1993, effectively imposing an economic blockade that continues to influence the regional dynamics. While Turkey offered moral and political support to Azerbaijan, it did not engage in direct military intervention. However, there were reports of Turkish military advisors and assistance in terms of training and military supplies to Azerbaijan.

The conflict and Turkey’s position on it have had lasting effects on Turkish-Armenian relations and regional geopolitics. Turkey provided strong diplomatic support to Azerbaijan, emphasizing Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity and condemning Armenian actions in the conflict. 

However, in the Second Karabakh War, which took place from late September to early November 2020 between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the Nagorno-Karabakh region, Turkey provided unwavering diplomatic and political support to Azerbaijan. Turkish officials, including President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, repeatedly affirmed Turkey’s backing of Azerbaijan’s military actions to reclaim its territories. Turkey framed the conflict as a legitimate effort by Azerbaijan to restore its territorial integrity.

Turkey’s role in the Second Karabakh War included significant military assistance to Azerbaijan. This support encompassed drones and technology, military advisors and training, and intelligence sharing. Turkey facilitated the supply of military and logistical support to Azerbaijan. Turkey actively engaged in regional and international diplomacy to garner support for Azerbaijan’s position and to counterbalance any potential diplomatic pressure on Azerbaijan.

Turkey’s efforts aimed to influence international opinion and prevent external interference that might have favored Armenia. Turkey conducted an information and media campaign to shape the narrative of the conflict. Turkish media outlets and government statements highlighted Azerbaijan’s grievances and the legality of its military actions, portraying Armenia as the aggressor and occupier of Azerbaijani territories.

Following the ceasefire agreement, Turkey committed to supporting Azerbaijan in the reconstruction of the newly gained territories. This includes investments in infrastructure, housing, and other critical areas to help Azerbaijan rebuild and resettle. Turkey’s role in the Second Karabakh War was marked by comprehensive support for Azerbaijan, encompassing military, diplomatic, economic, and informational dimensions. This support significantly contributed to Azerbaijan’s success in the conflict and has further solidified the strategic partnership between Turkey and Azerbaijan.

Turkey and Azerbaijan have significant trade relations, with both countries being important trading partners. They exchange various goods and services, including energy resources, agricultural products, machinery, textiles, and more. Azerbaijan’s investments in Turkey’s economy enable this country to gain influence in determining Turkey’s foreign relations, especially with Armenia. It is not possible to consider Turkey’s relations with Armenia independently of the Azerbaijani factor.

Energy cooperation is a cornerstone of the economic relationship between Turkey and Azerbaijan. The Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) pipeline, which transports Azerbaijani oil to Turkey’s Mediterranean coast for export, is a crucial element of this cooperation. Additionally, the Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline (TANAP) carries natural gas from Azerbaijan’s Shah Deniz field to Turkey and onward to Europe, further strengthening energy ties between the two nations.

Both countries have made significant investments in each other’s economies. Turkish companies are involved in various sectors in Azerbaijan, including construction, finance, telecommunications, and manufacturing. Similarly, Azerbaijani investments in Turkey have grown, particularly in real estate, tourism, and banking. The two countries frequently collaborate on infrastructure projects and initiatives aimed at enhancing connectivity and promoting economic development in the region. These projects encompass areas such as transportation, energy, telecommunications, and tourism. 

In recent years, the trade volume has continued to grow, reaching several billion dollars annually. For instance, in 2020, the trade volume was reported to be around $4.5 billion, with both countries expressing a commitment to increase this figure further. Turkey mainly exports machinery, vehicles, textiles, and food products to Azerbaijan, while Azerbaijan exports energy resources, including crude oil and natural gas, to Turkey.

Azerbaijan, being a significant player in the energy sector, has explored investment opportunities in Turkey’s energy industry. Azerbaijani companies have invested in energy projects, including renewable energy initiatives and infrastructure development, contributing to Turkey’s efforts to enhance its energy security.

Azerbaijan has increasingly been making investments in Turkey across various sectors, leveraging its economic strength and strategic interests in the region. Azerbaijani investors have shown interest in Turkey’s real estate market, particularly in cities like Istanbul. They often invest in residential and commercial properties, including luxury apartments, hotels, and office buildings. Istanbul’s economy and status as a global center attract Azerbaijani investors seeking profitable real estate opportunities.

Azerbaijan’s investments in Turkey’s tourism sector have been noticeable. Azerbaijani companies have ventured into the hospitality industry, investing in hotels, resorts, and tourism infrastructure in popular tourist destinations across Turkey. 

Azerbaijani investors have also shown interest in Turkey’s banking and finance sector. They have invested in Turkish banks and financial institutions, seeking to diversify their portfolios and benefit from Turkey’s financial markets.

Azerbaijani investments in Turkey extend beyond the aforementioned sectors. Azerbaijani companies have also shown interest in areas such as construction, telecommunications, manufacturing, and agriculture, participating in various projects and joint ventures aimed at promoting economic cooperation between the two countries.

One of the most important areas of relations between Azerbaijan and Turkey is education. Over the past 30 years, a necessary legal framework has been established to realize multifaceted cooperation in education between the two countries. The agreements signed between the Ministries of Education and Higher Education Institutions of Azerbaijan and Turkey in 1992, 1994, 1995, and 1997 have intensified cooperation in the field of education and academia between the two countries. These documents include provisions for cooperation in various areas of education and the mutual exchange of students.

A notable page in the history of cooperation in education with Turkey is the Agreement on Cooperation in Education and Science, signed on December 1, 2000. On October 31, 2017, within the framework of the sixth meeting of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council, the “Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Higher Education between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Higher Education Council of Turkey” was signed. Another important agreement is the “Protocol on Cooperation in Vocational Education between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Government of the Republic of Turkey,” which includes expanding cooperation in vocational education between the two countries, establishing two new vocational education institutions in Azerbaijan based on Turkish experience, and learning from Turkey’s experience in this field.

Currently, more than 24,000 citizens of the Republic of Azerbaijan are receiving education at various higher education levels (bachelor’s, master’slevels of higher education (bachelor’s, master”s, doctorate, medical specialization, etc.) in the Republic of Turkey.

Following Azerbaijan’s restoration of independence and the re-establishment of diplomatic relations with Turkey, cultural ties with Turkey have rapidly begun to develop. To this end, important legal foundations have been established, and significant agreements have been signed. In this context, the following international legal frameworks are noteworthy: The Agreement on Cooperation in Tourism (1992); The Protocol on Cooperation in the Fields of Culture and Art (1994); The Protocol on Cultural Cooperation (2004); The Agreement on the Establishment, Working Mechanisms, and Activities of Cultural Centers (2018).

In the context of these agreements, many artists have had the opportunity to visit and work in both countries, and academics from both countries have taught at universities, thereby contributing to the rapprochement of the two nations. Cultural Days are organized in both countries, the works of renowned artists from both nations are taught in higher education institutions, and these works are regularly introduced to the public.

“Sister city” relations play a significant role in developing mutual cultural ties. Currently, nearly 100 different regions of the two states have established “sister city” relationships. As a result, not only residents of major cities but also those living in regions outside administrative centers become familiar with each other’s culture. Cultural events organized in accordance with the traditions, customs, art, and folk traditions of the regions attract the locals.

Cultural cooperation between Azerbaijan and Turkey is not limited to mutual promotion of the two countries’ cultures. The two states also closely cooperate to promote and recognize a common Turkish culture worldwide. The International Organization of Turkic Culture (TÜRKSOY) provides an exceptional platform for this purpose.

Since Azerbaijan’s independence in 1991, Turkey and Azerbaijan have signed numerous bilateral agreements that have significantly strengthened their relationship across various sectors. Here is an overview of key agreements between the two countries:

1. Establishment of Diplomatic Relations (1992)
2. Turkey-Azerbaijan Trade and Economic Cooperation Agreement (January 2, 1992)
3. Friendship, Cooperation and Good Neighbor Agreement between the Republic of Turkey and the Republic of Azerbaijan (January 24, 1992)
4. Black Sea Economic Cooperation Education, Culture and Communication Agreement (March 6, 1993)
5. Cooperation Agreement in Scientific, Technical, Social, Cultural and Economic Fields (February 9, 1994)
6. Agreement on the Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investments (April 4, 1994)
7. Agreement on the Prevention of Double Taxation (April 9, 1994)
8. Military Education and Cooperation Agreement (1992):
9. International Organization of Turkic Culture – TÜRKSOY Membership (1993)
10. Cultural Cooperation Agreement (1994)
11. Bilateral Investment Treaty (1994)
12. Turkey-Azerbaijan Social Security Agreement (July 17, 1998)
13. Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) Pipeline Agreement (1999)
14. Agreement on Cooperation in the Field of Environmental Protection between Turkey and Azerbaijan (October 14, 2004)
15. Baku-Tbilisi-Kars Railway Agreement (2007)
16. Memorandum of Cooperation between the Ministry of State Responsible for Women and Family Affairs of the Republic of Turkey and the State Committee for Family, Women and Children’s Issues of the Republic of Azerbaijan (February 4, 2008)
17. Approval of the Long-Term Economic and Trade Cooperation Program and Implementation Plan between Turkey and Azerbaijan (February 18, 2008)
18. Strategic Partnership and Mutual Support Agreement (2010)
19. Defense Industry Cooperation Agreements (2010)
20. Tourism Cooperation Agreement (2010)
21. Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline (TANAP) Agreement (2011)
22. Environmental Protection Agreement (2012)
23. Preferential Trade Agreement (2021)
24. Protocol Allowing Travel with Identification between the Republic of Turkey and the Republic of Azerbaijan Citizens (December 10, 2020)
25. Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) Framework Agreement (2021)
26. Shusha Declaration (2021)
27. Energy Cooperation Agreements (2022)