Aliyev trying to increase his weight in relations with Turkey: Igityan

In the situation that has developed between Turkey and Azerbaijan, it is important to bear in mind that the public discussions were initiated by the Turkish side, and that the situation did not unfold in a way that had Aliyev interfering in Turkey’s internal affairs and demanding anyone’s dismissal. Karen Igityan, a Caucasus expert, said this in an interview with Alpha News.

“Initially, certain events took place in Azerbaijan, in particular Aliyev’s speech, which was followed by a reaction from journalists and politicians in Turkey. Azerbaijan’s response to this was quite harsh. Baku perceived it as interference in its internal affairs,” Igityan said.

According to the expert, Erdogan made concessions in this situation, but what happened should not be viewed as a one-sided concession.

“These two countries are closely interconnected, but Turkey has always taken on the role of the big brother in this relationship,” he noted.

According to Igityan, Aliyev, for his part, is trying to increase Azerbaijan’s political weight and act more independently in the region. To this end, in his view, Baku is seeking to develop relations with Central Asian countries.