Power Games in the Caucasus: Azerbaijan's Foreign and Energy Policy towards the West, Russia and the Middle East (Library of International Relations)

"The dissolution of the Soviet Union into independent states was among the most momentous political phenomena of the twentieth century. This book provides the first comprehensive study of Azerbaijan's post-independence foreign policy in relation to its much stronger neighbours - Russia, Turkey and Iran - and the role that the West brought to bear in helping Azerbaijan to counterbalance the influence of Russia. Complex and subtle diplomatic negotiations enabled the exploitation of Azerbaijan's substantial oil and gas resources and the implementation of transit projects that Azerbaijan's leadership considered critical - the construction of the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline bypassing Russia being one example. The case of Azerbaijan demonstrates how in the post-Cold War order a small state has been able to advance its interests internationally even when they contradicted those of the hegemon. The book includes a wealth of new sources and extensive interviews with national policymakers and experts."--Bloomsbury publishing. Introduction: Azerbaijan in great power politics How do small states survive? Personalities, processes, institutions : sculpting Azerbaijan's foreign and energy policy In the name of sovereignty : Azerbaijan's perceptions and strategies in dealing with Russia's military might Mining, pipelines and deals : strategic manoeuvering with Russia on the Caspian From euphoria to pragmatism : the evolution of Azerbaijan's policy towards Turkey The Western dimension of Azerbaijan's strategic manoeuvering Postscript and conclusions: What future for Azerbaijani gas and strategic manoeuvering? Provides a comprehensive study of Azerbaijan's post-independence foreign policy in relation to its much stronger neighbours - Russia, Turkey and Iran - and the role that the West brought to bear in helping Azerbaijan to counterbalance the influence of Russia.