CONTEMPORARY EURASIA IX ( 1 )
LILIT MAYILYAN
UNDERSTANDING THE UNDERLYING DYNAMICS OF TURKISH-AZERBAIJANI RELATIONS : “ ONE NATION , TWO STATES ?”
Abstract : The objective of this study is to analyze the underlying factors within Turkish-Azerbaijani relations that is encapsulated in the motto , “ One nation , two states ,” focusing on the main challenges and differences between the two countries . This article maps out the shifting dynamics of bilateral relations since Azerbaijani independence in 1991 and reveals the political , economic and cultural underpinnings of bilateral relations . This study discusses the place of Turkey and Azerbaijan within each other ’ s foreign policy calculations and claims that the current phase of Turkish-Azerbaijani relations is driven by the national pragmatic interests of each state despite the initial years of romanticized relations . It reveals that the national interests of Turkey and Azerbaijan do not always align and they follow pragmatic national interests , despite their “ One nation , two states ” rhetoric . The strategic partnership of the two states relies on the energy and transportation projects , as well as cultural , historical and ethnic affinity . However , the political , economic , and cultural contingencies have also been crucial to map out the broader picture of bilateral relations .
Keywords : Turkey-Azerbaijan relations , “ One nation , two states ,” energy relations , partnership , flag crisis .
Introduction
The objective of this study is to analyze Turkish-Azerbaijani relations , focusing on the main challenges and differences in bilateral relations despite the narrative of their uniqueness and ideal relations . It focuses on political , economic and cultural underpinnings and the differences within these relations . This regional nexus has undergone certain transformations over the past three decades and plays a vital role in regional dynamics . After the collapse of the USSR , relations between Turkey and Azerbaijan began to develop within the context of ethnic , cultural and historical affinity . Following the dissolution period , Turkey moved to fill the religious and ideological vacuum left by Russia . On November 9 , 1991 , Turkey became the first state to officially recognize
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