Azerbaijan and Turkey Strengthen Ties with Zangezur Corridor Amid Iran’s Decline
Azerbaijan and Turkey are advancing the Zangezur corridor project to strengthen their economic ties, capitalizing on Iran’s diminished influence in the region. With Iranian opposition weakening, Azerbaijan and Turkey see an opportunity to connect key trade routes between China and Europe through Armenian territory. This initiative, which has geopolitical implications, may influence U.S. foreign policy and regional stability.
In response to Iran’s declining influence due to setbacks in Syria and Lebanon, Azerbaijan and Turkey are intensifying their efforts to advance the Zangezur corridor project, which Tehran has previously obstructed. This initiative aims to create a trade route connecting Azerbaijan with Nakhchivan, adjacent to Turkey, thereby enhancing economic collaboration between the two nations.
The proposed corridor will traverse Armenian territory, enabling Azerbaijan and Turkey to establish a significant trade route linking China and Europe. Iran opposes the 40-km corridor, fearing it may restrict one of its vital routes and exacerbate its challenges amidst ongoing sanctions.
With the Iranian regime weakened, Azerbaijan and Turkey perceive a strategic opening. “A weaker Iran is a huge opportunity for Turkey in the Caucasus,” noted Atilla Yesilada, a Turkey analyst. Conversely, Armenia’s resistance stems from reliance on Iranian military support.
Iran has displayed signs of softening its stance against the corridor, emphasizing the necessity of regional alliances amid increasing tensions with the U.S. A senior Iranian diplomat indicated that opposition to the Zangezur corridor is no longer a priority, potentially signaling a shift in Tehran’s diplomatic approach.
Russia supports the Zangezur corridor project, viewing it as a method to circumvent international sanctions and enhance trade routes through non-sanctioning countries. Tatiana Mitrova highlighted the corridor’s potential significance in Russia’s new logistical strategy.
The U.S. has yet to clarify its position regarding the corridor, with rising tensions and military partnerships between Armenia and the U.S. creating an uncertain landscape. Political consultant Eric Hacopian warned that the unpredictability under the Trump administration could embolden Azerbaijan and Turkey to advance their agendas.
Azerbaijan’s military success in Nagorno Karabakh, bolstered by Turkish support, has reshaped regional dynamics. If Turkey can revitalize diplomatic efforts toward a peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia, it could align with President Trump’s aspirations for international peacemaking, as speculated by analyst Asli Aydintasbas.
Erdogan is keen to foster a strong relationship with Trump while supporting Aliyev in transforming their nations into significant trade conduits between Europe and China.
The Zangezur corridor project represents a pivotal strategic initiative between Azerbaijan and Turkey amid evolving geopolitical conditions in the region, particularly the diminishing influence of Iran. The project’s significance is amplified by its potential to establish a crucial trade link connecting significant markets in China and Europe, benefitting both Azerbaijan and Turkey. The ongoing regional developments underscore a larger narrative of shifting alliances and economic cooperation in response to external pressures, including sanctions and military challenges.
In conclusion, the Zangezur corridor project signifies a strategic collaboration between Azerbaijan and Turkey, reflecting their ambitions amid Iran’s waning regional power. The evolving landscape offers both challenges and opportunities for diplomatic engagement, particularly with the U.S. taking a cautious stance. As Turkey seeks to position itself as a facilitator of peace, its partnership with Azerbaijan could reshape economic and political dynamics in the region for the foreseeable future.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
