Azerbaijan emerges as key link between Central Asia, Europe, says think tank chief

The strengthening of ties between Central Asia and the South Caucasus was discussed at a regional cooperation forum, with Azerbaijan playing an increasingly central role in linking Central Asia to Europe and global markets.

The remarks were made by Farid Shafiyev, Chairman of the Centre of Analysis of International Relations (AIR Centre) during his online address at the Gulf–Central Asia Think Tank Forum, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

Shafiyev said there is growing interest in strengthening connectivity between Central Asia and the South Caucasus, noting that the process is driven by a combination of economic needs, political calculations, and broader global development trends.

He stressed that these dynamics are turning regional cooperation from an option into a strategic necessity.

According to him, cooperation with Azerbaijan offers a practical solution for reducing dependence on traditional transit routes and ensures more secure access to European and other global markets.

“In this context, the development of integrated trade, logistics and multimodal infrastructure in the Caspian region is of particular importance. Azerbaijan has long been one of the key transit hubs for Central Asian exports, but recent geopolitical changes and targeted infrastructure development have made this route more attractive and practical,” Shafiyev said.

He added that this trend is also reflected in the expansion of regional cooperation in trade, energy, and infrastructure sectors.

By Vafa Guliyeva