Nakhchivan's place in Turkey-Azerbaijan relations

Abstract

The Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic holds a unique strategic position in Türkiye–Azerbaijan relations as the only region providing a direct land border between the two brotherly countries. Recent geopolitical developments, regional integration initiatives, and the prospects of the Zangezur Corridor have further increased the significance of Nakhchivan in regional cooperation.

This study aims to examine the strategic, political, economic, and cultural importance of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic in Türkiye–Azerbaijan relations and to determine its role in strengthening bilateral cooperation. The research is based on historical-comparative analysis, systematic evaluation, and the examination of relevant scholarly literature, official documents, and international agreements.

The findings demonstrate that Nakhchivan serves as one of the principal strategic pillars of Türkiye–Azerbaijan relations. The region plays an important role in transportation, energy cooperation, security, and economic integration. Since the signing of the Treaty of Kars, Nakhchivan has contributed significantly to the development of political, economic, and cultural ties between the two states. Furthermore, the prospective opening of the Zangezur Corridor may strengthen Nakhchivan’s position as a key transit and integration hub connecting Türkiye, Azerbaijan, and the broader Turkic world. Therefore, Nakhchivan remains an important geopolitical space that supports regional cooperation, stability, and the deepening of integration processes among Turkic states.