sanaeiyanzade K, mokaramipour M. A Comparative Study of Turkish and Iranian Foreign Policy in the South Caucasus. پژوهشهاي سياسي جهان اسلام 2025; 15 (3)
URL:
http://priw.ir/article-1-2013-en.html
1- PhD in International Relations, University of Isfahan, Iran , Kh_sanaeiyan1989@yahoo.com
2- PhD in International Relations, University of Tehran, Iran
Abstract: (14 Views)
This study, using the geopolitics of the South Caucasus and how this conflict was formed, seeks to answer these questions: How has Turkey and Iran's foreign policy towards the South Caucasus been shaped? What is Turkey's foreign policy towards the South Caucasus and why does Turkey emphasize supporting Azerbaijan? Why is Iran concerned about Turkey's influence in the South Caucasus and what measures will it take in response? Does Iran have concerns about changes in the regional balance of power in the South Caucasus? South Caucasus Turkey benefits from close relations with the Republic of Azerbaijan and has shown military and diplomatic support for Baku in recent wars, especially the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh War. The country also seeks to strengthen its position as a transit route for energy resources to Europe. Iran, on the other hand, is keen to maintain its relations with Armenia and prevent the expansion of Turkish and NATO influence in the South Caucasus. The findings of the study suggest that Iran is concerned about the security threats posed by the presence of Turkey and the West in the region and emphasizes the importance of maintaining access to transit corridors and its cultural interests in the Caucasus. The foreign policy of Iran and Turkey towards the South Caucasus has been shaped by geopolitical, historical, and strategic interests. Iran has a balanced policy with an emphasis on regional stability, preserving the territorial integrity of countries, and confronting Israeli and Arab influence. Iran has expanded its relations with Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia based on economic and cultural interests. Therefore, the policies of Iran and Turkey in the South Caucasus not only seek to secure their national interests, but are also heavily influenced by regional and global geopolitical and economic competitions.
Type of Study:
Research |
Subject:
Special Received: 2025/04/5 | Accepted: 2025/08/10 | Published: 2025/09/23