First Azerbaijan–Türkiye Think Tank Forum convenes in Shusha

The first Azerbaijan–Türkiye Think Tank Forum concluded on Monday in Shusha, bringing together leading analysts, experts and academics from both countries for a day of discussions on regional politics, strategic coordination and shared foreign policy priorities.

The forum, held at the Shusha Hotel, continued into private exchanges after the panel sessions ended. Participants reviewed the outcomes of the day’s debates, with proposals expected to be refined and later conveyed to the governments of both countries. Organisers noted that the role of think tanks is not to make decisions, but to prepare the intellectual groundwork on which governments base them.

The event was organised by the Centre for Analysis of International Relations, alongside Türkiye’s Strategic Research Centre. Opening remarks by AIR Centre Chairman Farid Shafiyev and SAM Chairman Polat Safi underlined the forum’s purpose in strengthening regional partnerships and expanding institutional cooperation between policy research institutions.

The first session focused on the foreign policy lines pursued by Baku and Ankara, highlighting areas of clear convergence rooted in the treaty bound strategic alliance between the two states. Experts examined cooperation across defence, trade and energy, as well as coordination in regions such as the Middle East and Central Asia. Azerbaijan’s growing role within the Central Asia platform, often described as transforming the 5 plus 1 format into an effective Central Asia 6, was noted as an important development for bilateral cooperation.

Discussions also touched on complex regional files, including political dynamics in Iraq and Syria, the wider situation in the Middle East, and the evolving context of relations with Iran. Analysts explored the extent to which improving economic and political ties between Baku and Tehran could develop further.

Throughout the day, speakers emphasised that while Azerbaijan and Türkiye are close allies under the Shusha Declaration, this does not imply identical positions on every issue. Experts said differences, where they exist, are managed through structured coordination and dialogue.

The forum featured three panel sessions covering foreign policy, economic cooperation, connectivity projects and regional integration frameworks. The event strengthened institutional ties between Azerbaijani and Turkish think tanks and laid the groundwork for future joint analytical initiatives.

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