Political relations between Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan are at the level of strategic partnership, said Aydar Kenzhebekovich Kurmashev, Head of the Asian Studies Department at the Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, in an interview with APA.
According to Kurmashev, the dynamics of bilateral dialogue reflect not only the strengthening of relations but also the formation of a common political vision.
He noted that both countries share similar principles in foreign policy: “This common approach creates a solid foundation for coordination of activities both at the regional and international levels - including within the Organization of Turkic States, the UN, and other institutions.”
Middle Corridor becomes key to Eurasian integration
Kurmashev added that, alongside political dialogue, economic cooperation is also consistently developing: “Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan are building systematic partnerships in transport, logistics, energy, and digital technologies. The volume of mutual trade is increasing, but the potential is even greater. In particular, the steps taken towards harmonizing customs systems create conditions for a new stage of cooperation. At this stage, the main priority is not only the growth of trade turnover but also the development of joint production chains and investment projects.”
He stated that, as a natural continuation of this economic integration, the Middle Corridor acts as a key element of Eurasia’s new geo-economic architecture.
“Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan are central links in this corridor connecting Europe, Central Asia, and China. The development of the ports of Aktau and Baku, the modernization of railway lines, and the implementation of digital control systems enable the formation of a unified logistics ecosystem. This means reducing dependence on traditional routes, increasing transit revenues, and strengthening economic sovereignty for the region. In fact, the Middle Corridor is already playing the role of a ‘sovereignty corridor’ - a symbol of our countries’ ability to pursue independent policies and integrate the region through practical cooperation,” Kurmashev added.
Turkic States’ cooperation gains strategic depth
The expert also emphasized that cooperation within the Organization of Turkic States is transcending cultural and linguistic unity and gaining strategic dimensions: “This is reflected in joint projects in transport, energy, security, and digital transformation. For the region, this process offers an opportunity to strengthen institutional mechanisms of interaction and turn the OTS into an effective platform for practical integration.”
According to Kurmashev, “at this stage, Azerbaijan - currently chairing the OTS - places special emphasis on developing technological potential, while Kazakhstan contributes to shaping a balanced agenda in humanitarian, scientific, and economic directions.”
Baku and Astana to shape sustainable Eurasian connectivity
“At this point, it is important to move from bilateral agreements to institutional cooperation formats. This involves harmonizing investment regulations, coordinating energy and digital strategies, and forming a common economic space between Central Asia and the South Caucasus. In addition, strengthening coordination in international initiatives is also crucial. Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan can become the architects of sustainable Eurasian connectivity through concrete joint projects linking East and West,” the expert concluded.
Finally, Kurmashev touched upon the significance of President Ilham Aliyev’s upcoming visit to Kazakhstan, noting that it coincides with a period when Azerbaijan, after restoring its territorial integrity, is reshaping its foreign policy and striving to strengthen ties with Central Asia: “For Kazakhstan, this visit is an important opportunity to deepen political dialogue and advance new economic initiatives in the fields of transport, ‘green’ technologies, and digitalization.”
