Five international organizations: CE CIS EAPC OIC OSCE 

Relations with Armenia remain the central issue. Turkey – with its common religion and culture – is a natural ally. The West, as well as neighboring Iran (with a large, ethnically related Azari population) and Russia, are interested in Caspian oil fields. Azerbaijan has stated its intention to join NATO.

From "The Financial Times World Desk Reference" © Dorling Kindersley 2004