Development of Bilateral Relations Between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan in 1993–2013

Research Article

Abstract

In the period from 1993 to 2013, relations between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Kazakhstan developed steadily based on historical, cultural, and linguistic commonality, mutual respect, and strategic interests. The states in question, which became independent after the collapse of the USSR, built their bilateral ties, simultaneously forming an independent foreign policy identity and strengthening their positions in the international arena. Cooperation in the energy sector acquired special significance in bilateral relations. The signing of an agreement on cooperation in the oil and gas industry in 1996, as well as the 2006 agreement on the transportation of Kazakh oil through the Caspian Sea and the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline, became breakthrough steps in bilateral relations. Kazakhstan received a reliable route for the export of its hydrocarbons, and Azerbaijan received a strategic partner in the development of its transit infrastructure. The article analyzes the development of bilateral relations between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Kazakhstan in the period from 1993 to 2013. The key stages of cooperation in the political, economic, energy, and humanitarian spheres are considered. Based on the study of diplomatic initiatives and economic indicators, the main factors that contributed to the development of mutually beneficial cooperation and the formation of a solid base for further interaction between the two countries are identified. The article highlights the main achievements and significant agreements that laid the foundation for further strategic interaction in the 21st century. The work uses the methods of comparative historical analysis, a systems approach, as well as elements of content analysis of official documents and speeches. The analysis of bilateral relations is based on the study of political, economic, and cultural aspects of cooperation between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, with the involvement of both official sources and scientific literature. The work analyzes the key interstate treaties between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, which made it possible to identify the legal basis and institutional mechanisms for cooperation between the two countries. In conclusion, it is emphasized that relations between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan in the period under review were characterized by stable growth and deepening of multi-level interaction, which created a solid foundation for a long-term mutually beneficial alliance. Prospects for further development of the partnership are associated with the implementation of joint infrastructure and energy projects, as well as with strengthening coordination on topical issues of regional security and sustainable development. Thus, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan continue to form a model of constructive cooperation based on common interests, historical and cultural ties.