Turkish FM outlines shift from competition to cooperation in South Caucasus

A new phase is emerging in the South Caucasus that requires regional countries to move from competition to cooperation, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said in an interview with Türkiye newspaper.

Fidan stated that an agreement has been reached on launching and operating the “3+3” mechanism, which includes Türkiye, Russia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Armenia, and Georgia.

“This is a very important mechanism in terms of deepening cooperation between Türkiye, Russia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Armenia, and Georgia. As countries of the region, we must recognise that we need to prioritise cooperation instead of rivalry and the pursuit of dominance.

We see that in the context of recent developments in the Middle East, this understanding has already reached a certain point. From this perspective, we can strengthen our economies and increase stability in the South Caucasus and Central Asia. Attempts to establish dominance must be ended. Peace, tranquillity, and stability will benefit all of us. We need to change our mindset. The ‘3+3’ formula will serve the implementation of important cooperation in the Caucasus.

Of course, there are obstacles. Mutual distrust between some countries has reached serious levels. On the other hand, there is also a joint search for solutions. Last week, we held a trilateral meeting — a trilateral meeting between Azerbaijan, Türkiye, and Georgia. In particular, progress is being made on connectivity issues (transport and logistics routes). The connection of the Middle Corridor to Türkiye was discussed. We believe important steps can be taken,” he said.

By Jeyhun Aghazada