Valuable lessons small states should learn from Azerbaijan's strategic balancing of policies Article by Agenda Nexus

A Swedish analytical platform has published an article examining the unique blend of Azerbaijan's economic, diplomatic and military policies that have allowed the country to position itself as a central actor in the South Caucasus and the global security network.

The article written by The Agenda Nexus publication, titled “Azerbaijan Strengthens Regional Power”, provides its readers with a detailed overview of the country’s strategic, economic, and military achievements since 2020.

The author points out how Azerbaijan "consolidated" both its economic and military strength following its victory in the 2020 war with Armenia by significantly reinforcing its armed forces, modernising its industries, and expanding international cooperation. This has allowed the country to transform itself into a stable and influential player in regional politics.

Special attention is given to the strategic alliances Azerbaijan has built with Türkiye, Israel, Italy, the United Kingdom, and other Western partners, which have enabled the country to strengthen its defence capabilities and enhance its level of technological independence.

The publication also highlights that Azerbaijan is actively investing in the development of its energy, industrial, and technological sectors, with the ensuing economic stability allowing for "continued military development without compromising social and technological progress."

A significant portion of the article sheds light on Azerbaijan's military capabilities and defence industry. It notes that the country is a producer of armoured vehicles, artillery, and boasts an "exceptional" air defence system considering its size.

According to the publication, the existence of a robust domestic military and industrial production in combination with support received by the country's strategic partners, Türkiye and Israel, ensures a high degree of autonomy for the South Caucasus country. This further permits the country to reduce its reliance on foreign supply chains, which "strengthens national sovereignty."

"Azerbaijan’s strategy illustrates how small but strategically active countries can achieve autonomy and security through a combination of domestic industrial capacity, economic strength, and international partnerships," it writes.

The authors further point out that, against the backdrop of political instability in Armenia and growing Russian influence in the region, Azerbaijan stands out as a stable, independent, and Western-oriented actor capable not only of defending its national interests but also of contributing to greater security in the Caucasus.

In a comment cited in the article, Oden Agapur, the publication’s editor-in-chief, states that studying the path the country took "demonstrates how a well-calibrated combination of diplomatic alliances, strategic military modernisation, and long-term investments in economy and technology can create stability, deterrence, and influence far beyond its size."

In his final remarks, Agapur urges that Azerbaijan can serve as a model for small and medium-sized European countries, including Sweden. "At a time when Europe’s security order is under pressure, Azerbaijan serves as an example of how even a smaller nation, through determination, strategic leadership, and proactive action, can strengthen its peace, safeguard its sovereignty, and contribute to a more secure regional and global order."

By Nazrin Sadigova