A country building bridges to the future: What surprised an American man in Azerbaijan? Article by The American Spectator

The US magazine, the American Spectator, has published an article discussing Azerbaijan's unique position at the crossroads of various civilisations, emphasising the country's rich history, cultural diversity, and strategic importance. Caliber.Az highlights selected excerpts from the piece.

Editor's note: The author of this article, George Landrith, is president of Frontiers of Freedom, a public policy think tank that advocates for national defense, free markets, and individual liberty.

My recent visit to Azerbaijan was nothing short of eye-opening. Nestled between Iran, Russia, Armenia, Georgia, and Türkiye, this remarkable country stands as a unique fusion of East and West — a true hidden gem that too few Americans know about. Azerbaijan defies simple categorisation. It’s a place where ancient traditions blend harmoniously with modern development, where East meets West, and where resilience, diversity, and hospitality are woven into the national fabric.

One of the most striking things about Azerbaijan is its location — both geographically and culturally. Situated at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, the country has long served as a bridge between civilisations. For centuries, it lay along the Silk Road, welcoming travelers, merchants, and emissaries from diverse cultures. This long history of cultural exchange has helped shape Azerbaijan into a society known for its openness and religious tolerance — values that are deeply embedded in its national identity to this day.

Through many centuries, Azerbaijan has absorbed influences from the Persians, Ottomans, Russians, and Europeans, yet it has maintained a distinct cultural identity all its own. The result is a society that feels both familiar and exotic, deeply rooted in tradition yet forward-looking and innovative.

Azerbaijan is a majority-Muslim country, but it is not defined by religious extremism. Instead, mosques, synagogues, and Christian churches stand side by side. Jews have lived in Azerbaijan for more than 2,000 years and continue to flourish there. Christian communities worship freely. Religious tolerance is not merely a government policy — it is part of the national ethos. The country’s history as a hub of trade and exchange has taught its people the value of welcoming those who look, speak, or pray differently. That spirit of pluralism could serve as a model for other nations in the region.

Some outside observers have misunderstood Azerbaijan’s ongoing conflict with neighbouring Armenia, framing it as a religious war — a Muslim nation versus a Christian one. But that narrative misses the truth of what has occurred. Armenia, not Azerbaijan, initiated the conflict by occupying large swaths of internationally recognised Azerbaijani territory in the early 1990s. During this occupation, over a million Azerbaijanis were driven from their homes and lands. More than a million landmines were planted — not as a defence mechanism, but as a means to prevent those displaced families from ever returning to their farms, homes, and ancestral villages.

Azerbaijan has sought to resolve these issues through diplomacy and international law, but its patience was often met with delay. Eventually, Azerbaijan reclaimed its territory, not through conquest, but through liberation — a reassertion of its sovereignty over its own lands. The return of internally displaced persons to their rightful homes is now a national priority, but de-mining the area remains an enormous humanitarian and logistical challenge.

Despite the geopolitical pressures from powerful neighbours, the Azerbaijani people have built a thriving nation grounded in their rich heritage and cultural values.

What is perhaps even more surprising to some is Azerbaijan’s strategic alliance with Israel — a rare relationship in the Muslim world. Azerbaijan is the only predominantly Muslim nation to supply oil to Israel, cooperates closely on defence and intelligence, and maintains a robust diplomatic relationship.  

And for the United States, Azerbaijan is more than just a friend — it is a crucial strategic partner — offering intelligence and cooperation in the fight against terrorism. Its geographic location and political stability make it a key player in regional security and energy supply, further underscoring its significance beyond its borders. As a secular, pro-Western, energy-rich country that borders Iran, Azerbaijan plays a vital role in regional security and U.S. geopolitical interests.

The capital city of Baku is a vivid example of Azerbaijan’s dual identity — deeply rooted in history, yet looking boldly to the future. Walking through its streets, I was captivated by the contrast: the medieval stone walls of the Old City stand just blocks away from the ultra-modern Flame Towers that light up the night sky. It’s a city that honors its past while embracing the future. The city’s infrastructure, museums, art, and hospitality rival any global capital.

A flourishing nation

Economically, Azerbaijan is thriving. While its oil and gas resources are well known, the country is diversifying. Agriculture, tourism, technology, manufacturing, and logistics are all growing sectors. The government has invested heavily in infrastructure and modernisation, making the country increasingly attractive for international partnerships and business development. The economic growth I witnessed during my visit reflects not just smart policy, but also the drive and ingenuity of the Azerbaijani people.

What left the deepest impression on me, though, was the spirit of the Azerbaijani people. Whether I spoke to a shopkeeper, a student, a religious leader, or a government leader, I encountered the same warmth, dignity, and resilience. These are people who have endured war, displacement, and geopolitical hardship — and yet they exude optimism, hospitality, and a deep pride in their heritage.

Azerbaijan offers a different story — one of coexistence, heritage, progress, and faith. It is a place that understands the value of building bridges, not walls. And it is a friend to the United States, not just in rhetoric, but in action.

Azerbaijan may not dominate the evening news, but it has a story that deserves to be heard — and a future that promises to be even brighter.