UNION OF TWO STATES: CULTURAL SYNERGY OF AZERBAIJAN AND TURKEY

ABSTRACT

The article examines the phenomenon of cultural synergy between Azerbaijan and Turkey as a factor in sustainable interstate cooperation. The historical, cultural, linguistic and civilizational foundations of this union, as well as modern forms of cultural cooperation, are studied. The role of cultural diplomacy, education and humanitarian initiatives in the formation of a common civilizational space in the post-Soviet space is emphasized.

АННОТАЦИЯ

В статье рассматривается феномен культурной синергии между Азербайджаном и Турцией как фактор устойчивого межгосударственного взаимодействия. Исследуются историко-культурные, языковые и цивилизационные основания этого союза, а также современные формы культурного сотрудничества. Подчёркивается роль культурной дипломатии, образования и гуманитарных инициатив в формировании общего цивилизационного пространства на постсоветском пространстве.

Keywords: Azerbaijan, Türkiye, cultural synergy, Turkic unity, strategic partnership.

Ключевые слова: Азербайджан, Турция, культурная синергия, тюркское единство, стратегическое партнёрство.

Introduction

Relations between Azerbaijan and Turkey represent a unique model of strategic partnership, which is based not only on political and economic interests, but also on deep cultural and historical ties rooted in a common Turkic identity, religious and linguistic affinity. These relations rest on a solid historical foundation formed by centuries of interaction, and at the same time respond to the challenges of modern times, developing in line with new geopolitical realities and regional dynamics. The famous slogan “one nation - two states”, proclaimed by the recognized leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev, has become not just an expressive metaphor for fraternal relations, but also a conceptual platform defining the essence and content of bilateral cooperation in the 21st century. This formula reflects a special form of interaction, in which cultural community and spiritual unity become a solid foundation for political dialogue, military alliance and economic integration. In the context of increasing multipolarity, instability in individual regions and transformation of the global order, the union of Azerbaijan and Turkey is acquiring strategic importance not only for the participants themselves, but also for the entire post-Soviet space, Transcaucasia and the Turkic world as a whole. Joint infrastructure projects, a unified position on key international issues, as well as the growth of cultural and humanitarian exchange indicate the formation of a new model of interstate interaction, in which the synergy of identities is transformed into a source of sustainable development and political coordination.

This article aims to study the cultural component of Azerbaijani-Turkish relations as the most important component of their strategic alliance, as well as to analyze the mechanisms of institutional interaction that form a unique model of interstate cooperation in the post-Soviet period.

Materials and Methods

In this research, a qualitative method was preferred. A detailed investigation of the topic was conducted within the framework of primary and secondary sources. A document-based data collection technique was used in the research. The primary and secondary sources used in the study were analyzed and interpreted based on the topic, leading to the conclusion of the study.

Historical and cultural roots of rapprochement

The cultural community of Azerbaijan and Turkey has been formed over the centuries, based on the Turkic ethnic basis, Islamic civilizational affiliation and common elements of folklore, literature and traditional values. A common language, similar mentality and a single spiritual and cultural paradigm contributed to the formation of a stable sense of brotherhood and unity between the two peoples. The literary heritage of such outstanding Azerbaijani poets as Muhammad Fuzuli, Imadaddin Nasimi and Nizami Ganjavi has deep echoes with the works of Turkish classics - Yunus Emre, Karakoyunlu, Ashik Veysel, which indicates the presence of a common poetic and philosophical space. Many authors touched upon universal themes of love, divine truth, justice and morality, which formed a value and aesthetic platform accepted by both cultures. In the oral folk tradition of both countries, one can find similar motifs of heroic epics, such as “Koroğlu” and “Dede Korkut”, which reflect ethnic self-awareness, moral principles and ideas of valor and honor. The celebration of Novruz, an important element of the cultural calendar of both Azerbaijan and Turkey, reveals a living connection with pre-Islamic and Islamic traditions, symbolizing rebirth, unity and the power of nature.

According to Ismayilova, “the epic “Kitabi Dede Korkut” played a key role in the formation of the Azerbaijani written tradition, strengthening cultural and literary ties with Turkey.” [3, 68] This epic not only reflects the common historical and ethnocultural roots of the Turkic peoples, but also serves as a basis for the transmission of traditional values, ideals of heroism and morality that unite the Azerbaijani and Turkish cultures. The influence of "Kitabi Dede Korkut" is manifested in numerous literary works, folk tales and even in modern artistic forms, which contributes to maintaining a living cultural connection between the two peoples. Thus, the epic acts not only as a literary monument, but also as a symbol of the continuity and interpenetration of the cultural traditions of Azerbaijan and Turkey.

Thus, the cultural basis of the Azerbaijani-Turkish rapprochement is not declarative, but historically organic in nature, based on centuries-old interaction and a common civilizational code.

Language and educational interaction

The Turkish and Azerbaijani languages ​​belong to the Oghuz group of the Turkic language family, which ensures a high level of mutual understanding and facilitates communication between speakers of both languages. Due to common linguistic roots, representatives of the two peoples can easily perceive each other's oral and written speech without significant difficulties, which significantly simplifies interstate interaction at the humanitarian level. This language factor serves as an important foundation for the development of cultural ties, deepening dialogue and joint educational initiatives.

Fluency in related languages ​​facilitates active exchange of experience in various fields, from science and art to media and literature. In particular, educational cooperation between Azerbaijan and Turkey is developing dynamically. Every year, thousands of Azerbaijani students choose Turkey for higher education, which opens up wide opportunities for professional growth and strengthening intercultural ties. Turkish universities are renowned for their high level of teaching and the diversity of their academic programs, making them an attractive choice for young people from Azerbaijan.

As Mamedova notes, such linguistic affinity creates a solid foundation for the development of intercultural communications, facilitating the establishment of humanitarian contacts, educational and cultural exchanges. Thanks to this, students and teachers of both countries can easily adapt to each other's educational environment, which contributes to the deepening of bilateral cooperation. [5]

In turn, Azerbaijani higher education institutions actively cooperate with their Turkish colleagues, inviting teachers and accepting students within the framework of various exchange and joint programs. Such bilateral academic mobility contributes not only to improving the quality of education, but also to the formation of strong interpersonal and intercultural ties between future specialists of the two countries.

Joint educational projects, in particular the opening of Turkish lyceums and schools in Azerbaijan, play a special role in strengthening bilateral relations. These institutions offer education according to Turkish programs, while maintaining respect for local traditions and cultural characteristics. “They become centers for the formation of a common cultural identity, where the younger generation learns the values ​​that unite the two nations. Thanks to this, not only the educational but also the socio-cultural bridge between Azerbaijan and Turkey is strengthened, which is especially important in the context of the modern world, which requires intercultural understanding and cooperation.” [2, 473]

Thus, linguistic affinity and developed educational interaction are among the key factors supporting and deepening the strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and Turkey. They create a solid foundation for the further development of bilateral relations in the humanitarian sphere and contribute to the formation of a single cultural and educational space reflecting the historical closeness and modern interests of both countries.

The Role of Cultural Diplomacy

Cultural diplomacy is central to the soft power strategy of Turkey and Azerbaijan, serving as an important tool for strengthening bilateral relations and shaping a positive image of both countries in the international arena. As part of this strategy, various cultural events are regularly held - national art festivals, book fairs, thematic cultural days, teleconferences between cities, theater tours and music concerts, which contribute to a deeper mutual understanding and perception of each other as culturally close nations. Such events create a vibrant cultural space for exchanging experiences and developing creative cooperation, which in turn helps strengthen national identity and common values.

International organizations such as TURKSOY (International Organization of Turkic Culture), which unites efforts to preserve and popularize the cultural heritage of the Turkic peoples, play a special role in promoting cultural unity. TURKSOY implements numerous projects aimed at supporting traditional arts, languages ​​and crafts, organizes exhibitions, symposiums and competitions in which Azerbaijan and Turkey occupy key positions. This organization not only contributes to strengthening cultural ties, but also creates a platform for dialogue and cooperation, strengthening the sense of community and unity among the Turkic peoples, especially between Azerbaijan and Turkey. [4]

The cultural synergy between Azerbaijan and Turkey is a sustainable basis for their strategic interaction. It goes beyond political alliances, forming a common humanitarian space that strengthens the post-Soviet identity of Azerbaijan through cultural and civilizational ties with Turkey. In the context of global challenges and competition of development models, it is the cultural factor that becomes the most important instrument of consolidation and long-term sustainability of the interstate union. [1]

Thus, cultural diplomacy becomes an important element in building strategic partnerships, supporting not only political and economic dialogue, but also forming strong human ties at the societal level.

Conclusion

Thus, the cultural synergy between Azerbaijan and Turkey not only strengthens bilateral relations, but also serves as a foundation for the formation of a sustainable and multifaceted partnership capable of effectively responding to modern challenges of international politics. Deep historical, linguistic and civilizational ties create a unique platform for interaction that promotes the development of joint projects in the fields of culture, education and social sphere. In the context of a rapidly changing global context, it is the cultural factor that becomes a key element that ensures the strength and dynamism of the union of the two states, forming an example of a successful model of interstate cooperation in the post-Soviet space.

References:

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