Political

The visit of the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian, to Azerbaijan can be considered a historic milestone in strengthening the relations between the two neighboring countries. This visit carries an important symbolic and political significance not only in terms of the implementation of diplomatic protocol, but also in terms of the re-strengthening of mutual trust, friendship and good-neighborly relations.

During the visit, the meeting between President Ilham Aliyev and President Masoud Pezeshkian, the negotiations, and the signed documents outlined the strategic directions for the future development of relations. The leaders addressing each other as “my dear brother” is a reflection of the new political atmosphere that has emerged between the two countries. This is not just a protocol expression, but also a symbol of mutual respect and political will.

A new chapter in Azerbaijan-Iran relations

A member of the Board of the Center of Analysis of International Relations, Javid Valiyev, in an interview with APA, drew attention to the decisive role of leaders in interstate relations: "The role of leaders in interstate relations is extremely significant. We have clearly seen this in both Azerbaijan-Türkiye relations and Azerbaijan's relations with other Turkic states. I believe that Pezeshkian has observed how attentive and sensitive the Azerbaijani President is on such matters. He believes that this approach is more appropriate for improving relations with Azerbaijan. Pezeshkian thinks that this approach will have a positive impact on relations with Azerbaijan and acts accordingly. Of course, addressing him as 'my dear brother' is positively received by both the people of Azerbaijan and Azerbaijanis living in Iran. Because the President is a leader who is constantly supported by the people and has liberated Karabakh from occupation. I believe that, for this reason, there is deep respect for the President among Azerbaijanis in Iran as well. Pezeshkian’s address further strengthens the trust in the President among both the people of Iran and Azerbaijanis living in Iran."

In an interview with APA, Iranian political expert Ali Qaem Maqami referred to Azerbaijan and Iran as two brotherly countries with a shared language, religion, and culture, connected by the Araz River and the Caspian Sea: "We have unity in religion and language. The people of Azerbaijan and Iran are connected by blood and family ties, and they are always by each other's side. These close relations are of great significance not only economically and politically but also in cultural, social, and humanitarian aspects. The expression 'my dear brother' can be seen as a symbol of these strong ties, shared history, and future perspectives."

Azerbaijan-Iran Border: From Neighborhood to Strategic Partnership

Azerbaijan and Iran share a long and strategically important land border. This geographical proximity creates broad opportunities for close cooperation between the two countries in the fields of economy, transport, energy, and culture. Although Iran borders 12 countries, its border with Azerbaijan stands out as particularly reliable and plays a significant role in bilateral relations. Following the 44-day Patriotic War, President Ilham Aliyev’s visit to Khudafarin on November 16, 2020, became a symbol of Azerbaijani-Iranian friendship. On that day, the Azerbaijani leader referred to the Khudafarin Bridge as the “Bridge of Friendship,” reinforcing the spirit of peace and cooperation between the two nations. The reliability of the border with Iran is also crucial for regional security, as it influences numerous political and economic developments in the region.

Javid Valiyev believes that the liberation of Azerbaijani territories from occupation has also positively influenced Azerbaijan-Iran relations: “Large areas under Armenian occupation for years had turned into ungoverned, uncontrolled ‘grey zones.’ Because of this, several major projects were significantly delayed. Notably, infrastructure initiatives such as the Khudafarin and Giz Galasi hydroelectric power stations and the ongoing construction of the Aghband bridge only became feasible after our lands were liberated. Azerbaijan has always sought cooperation-based relations with its neighbors and has never posed a threat to them. This position is clearly reflected in the documents signed between Azerbaijan and Iran. Today, the border regions with Iran are considered among the most stable and secure for Iran. There are no major issues such as migration or terrorism at the border. The only remaining concern is drug trafficking, primarily directed from Iranian territory into Azerbaijan. However, Azerbaijani border guards are taking every possible measure to prevent this issue.”

Iranian expert, Maqami, stated that the official Tehran is trying to ensure the security and development of the region by establishing comprehensive cooperation with the countries of the Caucasus, including Azerbaijan: “The foreign and geostrategic goal of the Islamic Republic of Iran is to develop the highest level of political, economic, security, humanitarian relations, as well as cooperation in energy, culture, science and technology, education, sports, and the ecosystem with all Caucasus countries. Azerbaijan is the richest country in the Caucasus region. Cooperation between Iran and the Republic of Azerbaijan can ensure the interests and security of all regional countries and peoples.”

Support for regional peace and sovereignty

Pezeshkian's visit was an important opportunity not only to strengthen relations between the two countries, but also to once again express Iran's support for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan. This position, in addition to strengthening regional cooperation, is considered an example of a policy based on the principle of mutual respect in international relations. Such initiatives play an important role for peace and stability in the region.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian noted during an expanded meeting with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev that Karabakh is an inseparable part of Azerbaijan and Iran respects it.

Ali Qaem Maqami also emphasized that his country officially recognizes the independence of the Republic of Azerbaijan and acknowledges that Karabakh is an integral part of Azerbaijan: "Iran officially recognizes the independence of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Iranian officials support Azerbaijan’s independence and territorial integrity. Iran considers Karabakh to be an inseparable part of Azerbaijan. At the same time, Iran strongly condemns Armenia's occupation of the lands belonging to the Azerbaijani Muslim people and the genocide it committed."

The Rasht-Astara Railway as a key part of the North-South transport corridor

The construction of the Rasht-Astara railway enables the modernization of Azerbaijan’s railway infrastructure in line with current standards. This project not only contributes to the development of the domestic transport network but also facilitates the strengthening of economic relations between Azerbaijan and Iran. The Rasht-Astara railway will accelerate trade flows between the two countries, helping to ease logistics and freight transportation. Furthermore, it will allow goods transported from the Caucasus and Central Asia to Europe and other markets to be delivered more quickly and cost-effectively. This infrastructure project will have a positive impact on the development of mutual trade and cooperation among regional countries, positioning Azerbaijan as a key transport hub in the region. As a result, it will be an important step for both Azerbaijan’s economy and the overall development of the region.

Political scientist Javid Valiyev states that the Rasht-Astara railway is a significant part of the North-South transport corridor: “The Rasht-Astara railway is a very important segment of the North-South transport corridor. However, the main responsibility in this matter falls on Iran. Iran must carry out the construction or renovation of this railway, either by obtaining a loan or allocating financial resources to implement the project at its own expense. Nevertheless, this issue has not yet been fully resolved. However, it is observed that serious steps are being taken in this direction under the Pezeshkian government. Iranian officials' statements also indicate that real efforts are being made to resolve the issue. I believe that as a result of these initiatives, positive outcomes will be achieved in the near future. If the project is realized, it will further strengthen Azerbaijan's role in the North-South corridor.”

Cooperation in the energy sector

Cooperation in the energy sector between Iran and Azerbaijan supports the development of mutually beneficial relations between the two countries. This collaboration covers areas such as oil and gas production, energy transportation, and the joint implementation of new energy projects. In particular, the energy resources of the Caspian Sea hold significant strategic importance for both Azerbaijan and Iran. Additionally, the creation of a regional energy market among Iran, Azerbaijan, and Russia for energy exchange could be a crucial step toward more efficiently integrating the energy potential of these countries. This market would facilitate freer trade of energy resources, simplify energy exchange among the three nations, and accelerate economic integration. As a result, this cooperation will both strengthen regional stability and represent a significant step toward ensuring energy security.

A member of the Board of the AIR Center, Javid Valiyev, noted that there is both a history of cooperation and significant potential between Azerbaijan and Iran in the energy sector: "In this new era, additional opportunities for cooperation have emerged. The development of partnerships in alternative and renewable energy has become particularly relevant. One of the key areas Azerbaijan has prioritized in recent years is electricity generation from alternative energy sources. Our country is becoming an important hub, both for producing such energy and facilitating its transit. Certain agreements have already been signed in this direction, opening new prospects for Azerbaijan-Iran cooperation. On another note, the issue of Russian gas sales to Iran is also on the agenda. Agreements have been reached between Iran and Russia regarding volumes and technical aspects in this field. The transit of gas through Azerbaijan’s territory has also been agreed upon. Currently, there appears to be an agreement for a volume exceeding 2 billion cubic meters, with the possibility of future increases. Azerbaijan, as a transit country, will gain certain commercial and geopolitical advantages from this cooperation. At the same time, these projects will strengthen trust between the parties and further expand opportunities for collaboration in the energy sector."

The Iranian expert also noted that there is potential for energy cooperation between Tehran and Baku, as well as opportunities to create a regional energy market for energy exchange between Iran, Azerbaijan, and Russia: "Energy cooperation between the Islamic Republic of Iran and neighboring Azerbaijan is of great importance, both for strengthening bilateral relations and ensuring the energy security of the region. Iran views this partnership not only from a technical and economic perspective but also as one of the key pillars of strategic regional stability. Several major initiatives have already been implemented between our countries in the energy sector. In particular, the synchronization of power grids, balanced energy exchange, and the strengthening of mutual supply systems are tangible steps taken in this direction. Iran supports long-term planning in this cooperation, based on mutual trust between the parties."

Common position in international organizations

The cooperation between Iran and Azerbaijan within the framework of international organizations holds significant importance on both regional and global levels. Both countries actively participate in international platforms such as the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA), and the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO). Within these organizations, Azerbaijan and Iran work together to defend mutual political and economic interests and to strengthen regional security and stability. Under the OIC, the two countries take steps to promote cooperation and unity within the Islamic world. The D-8 and ECO organizations put forward relevant initiatives to boost economic development and trade relations. The SCO and CICA serve as important platforms for broader cooperation and trust-building in the Asian region and are of particular importance for both Iran and Azerbaijan. These collaborations also stimulate the implementation of mutually beneficial projects in fields such as energy, transportation, agriculture, and others.

Javid Valiyev emphasized that Azerbaijan and Iran cooperate within the framework of several regional and international organizations, and Iran’s support for Azerbaijan’s membership in the D-8, as well as the upcoming Economic Cooperation Organization meeting to be held in Khankendi, are important examples of this cooperation: “Azerbaijan and Iran are both represented in and cooperate through many regional and international organizations. One of the most recent positive examples of this was Iran’s non-objection to Azerbaijan’s membership in the D-8, its positive approach, and the support it provided. The cooperation between the two countries within these organizations also creates certain new opportunities.”

According to the Iranian expert, cooperation between Iran and Azerbaijan within the framework of international organizations contributes to strengthening mutual trust in the region, defending common interests, and maintaining regional stability: “This cooperation also holds strategic importance for ensuring peace and security in the Caucasus and the Caspian Sea basin, advancing economic projects, and developing transport and energy corridors in a coordinated manner. For Iran, Azerbaijan is not only a neighboring country with cultural ties but also an important partner in terms of mutual support and coordination on the international stage. Such cooperation facilitates the formation of joint positions within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the Non-Aligned Movement, and other regional blocs, and enables the defense of shared interests in international matters.”

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