Perception of Turkey and Russia in Azerbaijan; Relations of Azerbaijan with Turkey and Russia

Azerbaijan, located in the South Caucasus, at the meeting point of Europe and Asia transportation and communication lines, in a geopolitically sensitive region, which shares borders with powerful states like Russia, Turkey and Iran, gained its independence in 1991 after the dissolution of the USSR and stepped into the international relations arena. The first state to recognize the independence of Azerbaijan Republic has been the Republic of Turkey. Since the first days of establishment of bilateral relations with Turkey until now, these relations developed in various fields and were raised up to the level of strategic cooperation. Relations with Russia have a more complex character. This was related to the historical policy of "domain" Russia wanted to carry out in Azerbaijan. However, many problematic issues that existed in relations with Russia in the early years of independence have been eliminated to a great extent today. This study investigates bilateral relations of Azerbaijan both with Turkey and Russia, at the same time analysis the perception of Turkey and Russia in Azerbaijani. Analysis of relations between Azerbaijan and Russia living as brotherly countries in the USSR for a long period of time, and also Azerbaijan and Turkey called as brotherly countries as historically as today, is particularly important for understanding the perceptions of Azerbaijanis of Turkey and Russia. Prejudices or positive thoughts of Azerbaijanis regarding Turkey and Russia have been formed hundreds of years ago and still exists today. Summarily, the Turkish or Russian perceptions have been formed due to the general formation of ethnic patterns. This study is important in order to contribute to the development of positive perceptions by getting rid of some prejudices, understanding the real face of relations and enhancing the relations of these two countries with Azerbaijan. The main objective of this study is to identify the current perceptions of Turkey and Russia in Azerbaijan, especially to address the pros and cons of Turkish and Russian perceptions, and thus to contribute to the development of future relations with these two countries, by the development of perceptions of these two in a positive way. Keywords: International Relations, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Russia, Perception