The Energy Dimension of Azerbaijani-Russian Relations

The Energy Dimension of Azerbaijani-Russian Relations

Maneuvering for Nagorno-Karabakh

Author(s): Heidi Kjærnet
Editor(s): Matthias Neumann, Robert Orttung, Jeronim Perovic, Heiko Pleines, Hans-Henning Schröder
Series: Russian Analytical Digest (RAD)
Issue: 56
Pages: 2-5
Publisher(s): Center for Security Studies (CSS), ETH Zurich; Research Centre for East European Studies, University of Bremen
Publication Year: 2009

Russian-Azerbaijani relations in the post-Soviet period have mainly been a function of two factors: The continuing non-solution of the Nagorno-Karabakh question, and the export of Azerbaijan's petroleum resources. With the 2007 agreement to supply gas to Georgia and the December 2008 take-over of Georgia's gas distribution networks, Azerbaijan is assuming the role of Georgia's energy patron. This new function has important implications for both the Karabakh conflict and Azeri petroleum exports.