BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. The Azerbaijan–U.S. Think Tank Forum held in Baku has marked a significant step in elevating expert dialogue between the two countries to an institutional level, political analyst Azer Garayev told Trend.
Garayev highlighted that this development occurs amidst Azerbaijan’s ongoing efforts to enhance its soft power, coinciding with the United States’ clearer articulation of a new regional strategy for the South Caucasus and Central Asia.
"The theme of the forum, 'Bridging Visions: Azerbaijan-United States Dialogue for a Strategic Partnership,' encapsulates two crucial aspects: the commencement of a new chapter in bilateral relations and the growing strategic significance of the partnership in light of shifting global and regional dynamics," he explained.
He also pointed out that the agreements signed between Azerbaijan and Armenia on August 8 have instilled significant optimism, signaling a potential breakthrough toward real and lasting peace in the region for the first time in recent history. Furthermore, he noted that statements from US experts during the event underscored Washington's intention to take on a leading role as a mediator in this process.
A major takeaway from the forum, according to Garayev, was the reinforcement of Azerbaijan's integration with Central Asia. He stressed that the United States no longer intends to rely exclusively on the C5+1 framework, making Azerbaijan’s deeper involvement in this structure an inevitability. "Azerbaijan plays a pivotal role as a key connector in energy, logistics, transit, and diplomacy, thus fortifying its strategic position within the broader regional context," he added.
The analyst underlined that recent developments, the new post-war reality in the South Caucasus following the 44-day conflict, progress in border delimitation between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and the United States’ updated approach toward Central Asia, have increased the activity of major powers in the region.
“This forum demonstrates the US’s growing interest in developments in the South Caucasus and its transition toward a more structured model of cooperation with Azerbaijan. At the same time, the event confirms Baku’s strengthening role as an international analytical platform. Baku is no longer only an energy and logistics center but also a hub connecting global expert networks,” he said.
Garayev added that the forum serves not only as a platform for exchanging ideas but also as an institutional basis for future large-scale analytical conferences, joint projects, collaborative research, and policy recommendations.
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