By Tehran Tapdygov, Azerbaijani journalist, political observer, Baku / Azerbaijan
The signing of a strategic partnership agreement between Russia and Iran signifies a further strengthening of ties between the two countries. However, most neighboring countries remain noncommittal in expressing a clear stance on these relations.
In the first place, Iran’s open support for Armenia in its relations with Azerbaijan has at times strained the ties between Tehran and Baku.
So, how might the strategic alliance between Russia and Iran impact the South Caucasus?
This question was addressed by Darya Grevtsova, Deputy Head of the Russian Institute of Political Studies, who emphasized that the Tehran-Moscow relationship is not directed against other countries.
“The signing of such a document between Iran and Russia, in my opinion, will not have a strong impact on the South Caucasus because we need to understand that Russia already maintains normal relations with the republics in the region. Azerbaijan is Russia’s main partner in the South Caucasus. Our historical ties also connect us to Armenia and Georgia. Alongside other matters, Russia engages in mutual cooperation with these countries in economic projects, and these relations are already well-established in economic terms. As we see, Iran cooperates with Armenia, but its direct interest in the South Caucasus is not evident. The only things that connect Russia and Iran in the South Caucasus are the North-South Corridor and the Caspian Sea. There are some questions related to these issues. However, the signing of this agreement originates from a completely different context.”
As Grevtsova noted, the North-South Corridor is a key component of the partnership, which is also significant for Azerbaijan. Azerbaijani MP Mushfig Jafarov also weighed in on the matter, highlighting Azerbaijan’s consistent efforts to maintain good relations with its neighbors. He stated that the agreement between Russia and Iran is not directed against Azerbaijan.
“Azerbaijan has always sought to sustain and develop relations with Russia, Iran and its other neighbors. Although we are not part of the agreement signed between Russia and Iran, we know that cooperation and relations between these countries are longstanding and ongoing. Regarding the signing of this alliance agreement, I do not believe it signifies the end of any conflict for us. We have already moved past conflicts, but what is being discussed here is the opening of the Zangezur Corridor. Clearly, the opening of the Zangezur Corridor is beneficial for Azerbaijan, as well as for the region, Türkiye, Iran, and even Russia. This corridor serves as a vital link connecting Asia to Europe.”
Despite Iran’s opposition to the Zangezur Corridor, Baku continues its efforts to open the route:
“Of course, there are Baku’s interests and Iran also recognizes these interests. Iran has even suggested enabling the use of the Zangezur Corridor. However, our intention and goal remain firm: this corridor is situated on Azerbaijani soil. These lands have historically belonged to our ancestors, and now, with the return of 300,000 internally displaced persons and refugees to their internationally recognized lands, our desire is for these citizens to return and live there. The opening of the Zangezur Corridor is of immense importance for the region and all regional countries will benefit from it. I do not believe the signing of this agreement will hinder the opening of the Zangezur Corridor. There is no conflict here, as this is about cooperation and partnership between nations.”
Azerbaijan is also keenly interested in the North-South Corridor, though its primary focus remains on the opening of the Zangezur Corridor.
“We have our own declaration, signed on November 10, 2020, including Russia, which explicitly stated that the Zangezur Corridor would be opened among three countries. Russia respects this declaration and will not obstruct this matter in any way. I believe this does not pose any obstacle to the opening of the corridor. Cooperation exists among the countries in the region, and there is a sense of unity. Our shared objective is to strengthen regional cooperation, even through initiatives like the 3+3 platform. This platform, proposed by us and Türkiye, envisions the participation of the three South Caucasus countries along with Russia, Iran, and Türkiye. Although Georgia has clearly declined this proposal, other countries have supported it. Iran and Russia also expressed agreement and backed the initiative. I believe that in the future, the 3+3 platform could come to fruition. This would open new opportunities and doors for the region, both economically and politically.”