The South Caucasus, particularly Azerbaijan, has in recent years evolved from a traditional “peripheral region” into a strategic crossroads on the Eurasian map. This shift is primarily driven by three factors: energy security, the reconfiguration of transport and logistics routes, and changing geopolitical balances.
According to sea-news.az, citing AZERTAG analyst Irina Neagu describes Azerbaijan as one of the central actors in this emerging system. This status is attributed not only to its oil and gas exports but also to major infrastructure projects such as the Southern Gas Corridor (TANAP–TAP), the Middle Corridor, and the Caspian–Black Sea connectivity routes. These initiatives position Azerbaijan as a transit hub linking Europe with Central Asia and broader Asian markets.
Another key point highlighted in the analysis is Europes policy of reducing energy dependence, which has elevated Azerbaijan’s role as an “alternative and stable supplier.” This trend has become even more significant in the aftermath of the war in Ukraine.
Romania is also mentioned as a special case: through the Port of Constanța and Black Sea routes, it could serve as a logistics bridge within the Azerbaijan–Central Asia–Europe axis. This indicates that not only energy flows but also trade routes are being reshaped.
In conclusion, Azerbaijan is increasingly viewed not merely as a regional actor but as a key pillar of the Eurasian energy and logistics system, a status that further enhances its strategic weight in European and U.S. policymaking.
