Envoy: Strengthening ties with Turkic nations key priority for Azerbaijan's foreign policy

The expansion of Azerbaijan’s relations with Turkic countries remains a central pillar of the country’s foreign policy, according to Azerbaijani Ambassador to Kazakhstan Aghalar Atamoglanov.

In a recent interview with The Astana Times, Atamoglanov emphasized that developing ties with Kazakhstan is one of Azerbaijan’s top diplomatic priorities, per Caliber.Az.

“Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan are strategic partners and allies,” Atamoglanov stated, pointing to the deep-rooted connections between the two nations.

He cited shared ethnic backgrounds, religious ties, similar cultural values, and a long history of cooperation as crucial elements that bind the two countries. Geographical proximity on the Caspian Sea further strengthens their relationship. “Our ties, formed over centuries, have laid a solid foundation for expanding bilateral cooperation,” the ambassador added.

Atamoglanov also underscored the significance of Azerbaijan’s engagement within the broader framework of the Turkic world. “The Turkic world covers a vast geographical area with a population of more than 200 million people, holding considerable economic potential, rich energy resources, and strategically important transportation routes,” he explained. “Expanding ties with Turkic countries and strengthening the unity of the Turkic world is one of the key priorities of Azerbaijan's foreign policy.”

The ambassador went on to highlight the pivotal role of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), which Kazakhstan chaired in 2024. “For both countries, the Turkic world is not just a cultural project, but a powerful economic and geopolitical force,” Atamoglanov said.

In terms of economic cooperation, Atamoglanov noted significant progress in recent years, with trade volumes between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan on the rise. He also pointed to the collaborative work within the OTS, where a number of key documents and action plans have been adopted to help achieve mutual goals. "The organization has proved its relevance and is beginning to shape the Turkic world as a new geopolitical reality," he stated.

Looking ahead, Atamoglanov revealed that the future of the Turkic world holds exciting opportunities for further cooperation, including the establishment of the Turkic Investment Fund and the transition to a common alphabet. “These initiatives are seen as strategic steps to deepen cooperation and promote a stronger, unified Turkic world,” he concluded.

As Azerbaijan continues to prioritize its relationships with Turkic nations, the country is set to play an even greater role in shaping the geopolitical and economic landscape of the region.

By Tamilla Hasanova