The Southern Caucasus is a region of burgeoning geo-strategic importance. As a result, the US and EU are increasingly interested in local developments, while Russia maintains a high level of influence over the former Soviet republics. Azerbaijan has emerged as a key regional actor, bordering Russia to the North and Iran to the south, as well as Georgia and Armenia. The security situation remains fragile, not least due to the ongoing Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Furthermore, increased regional oil production and the unresolved legal status of the Caspian Sea contribute to potential causes of instability.

On May 27, Deputy Minister Amb. Araz Azimov of Azerbaijan will brief an SDA policy spotlight audience on the country's views to strategic priorities both in his own region as well as its cooperation with the EU and NATO.