The new world order is not being formed in an instant — it is emerging through a complex and dynamic struggle of interests. At the top of the global system is the battle between the “heavyweights” — the United States, China, Russia, and the European Union. But just as significant transformations are taking place at the middle level. Spheres of influence are shifting, new centers of power are emerging, and technological leaders are appearing who can influence the course of international processes.
For Azerbaijan, the key task is to secure its place on this evolving map and become a player whose interests cannot be ignored. This means actively building up economic, political, and technological potential — both in the immediate neighborhood and far beyond it. Modern technology makes it possible to be “present everywhere and at all times” — the question is one of strategic goals and available resources.
In light of President Ilham Aliyev’s historic visit to China, it is clear that the Azerbaijani head of state has set precisely this type of grand objective for the country’s foreign policy: a proactive presence and the establishment of a stable position in a changing world.
From now on, the global architecture will not be shaped solely by two or three “chief designers,” but rather through coordinated actions by a broad circle of “middle powers.” These countries, through regional initiatives and sustainable alliances, will begin to set the rules of the game within their respective areas of responsibility.
Azerbaijan is acting in accordance with this new model.
During the visit to China, Azerbaijan signed 20 cooperation agreements within the framework of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, covering areas such as law, green development, the digital economy, intellectual property rights, and the aerospace industry. In this context, China — which has for several years viewed Azerbaijan as a key player in its broader Eurasian economic strategy — represents a new opportunity for Baku, which is deeply interested in developing a non-oil economy and strengthening its role as a key link in global supply chains and regional trade corridors.
This strategy by Aliyev is transforming Central Asia and the South Caucasus into a coherent system of mutually beneficial relations.
Moreover, these steps by China are being taken at a time when Western influence in the region appears to be waning. Europe’s attention is diverted by internal problems and the ongoing war in Ukraine. Meanwhile, the United States has reverted to a more “isolationist model.” China is actively taking advantage of this situation in light of the new geopolitical realities.
In its foreign policy strategy, Azerbaijan is not limiting itself to expanding cooperation with Russia and the United States. It is consistently oriented toward the “world of the majority.”
Thus, Azerbaijan is building its foreign policy as a multi-level system: from the Caspian Sea to Africa, from the Balkans to the Pacific Ocean. It acts flexibly, precisely, and in a timely manner. By applying a proactive approach, Baku is not merely reacting to change — it is shaping it, claiming its rightful place in the new world order. Alongside other countries that have chosen the path of “transition through modernization,” Azerbaijan is among those who will define the future face of the world.
Ilgar Huseynov
Translated from haqqin.az
