Overview of Azerbaijan

Profile

A country at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia that has flourished as a key point on the Silk Road since ancient times. Abundant oil and natural gas resources form the backbone of the economy, with recent cultivation of tourism and IT sectors. The majority are Azeri people speaking a Turkic language, with Shia Islam being predominant, although the nation maintains a secular state. Known for varied terrain from Caucasus mountain peaks to semi-desert Caspian coastline, and diverse local cuisine and musical culture.

Official name: Republic of Azerbaijan
Common name: Azerbaijan
Numeric code: 031
Alpha-3 code: AZE
Alpha-2 code: AZ
Population: Approx. 10.3 million (2023)
Population density: Approx. 120
Primary languages: Azerbaijani
Major religions: Islam (majority Shia)
National anthem: Azerbaijan Respublikasının Dövlət Himni
Calling code: +994
Internet TLD: .az

History

Gained independence as a democratic republic in 1918, incorporated into the Soviet Union in 1920. Regained independence in 1991.

After annexation by the Russian Empire in the 19th century, it experienced brief independence after World War I. It regained independence in August 1991 just before the collapse of the Soviet Union. The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict with Armenia was a long-standing issue, but through military actions in 2020 and 2023, control over most of the region was restored. Under former President Heydar Aliyev and current President Ilham Aliyev's administration, it has maintained a semi-presidential system while expanding the economy leveraging resource development.

Geography & climate

Greater Caucasus Mountains in the northwest, Lesser Caucasus Mountains in the south, Kura-Aras Lowland crossing the center, and facing the Caspian Sea to the east.

Mix of subtropical humid and steppe climates

Area: Asia (South Caucasus) / 86600 km²
Capital: Baku
Largest city: Baku
Coastal status: Yes
Major lakes: Mingachevir Reservoir, Lake Goygol, Lake Sari
Bordering countries: Russia, Georgia, Armenia, Iran, Turkey

Natural resources

crude oil, natural gas, iron ore, copper, manganese, alumina, molybdenum, gold, limestone, salt, mineral hot springs, mud volcano gas, alpine forests, fertile black soil zones

Politics

Government: Semi-Presidential Republic

Economy

Currency: Azerbaijani Manat (AZN)

GDP (nominal): 787 hundred million USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): 2,170 hundred million international dollars (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Azerbaijani

Time zone: Azerbaijan Standard Time (AZT)

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Azerbaijani, Lezgin, Russian, Talysh, Tat, Mountain Jews, Tsakhur, Avar, Georgian, Udi

Life expectancy

Approx. 72.7 years

Literacy rate

99.8%

National sports

Wrestling, Football, Judo, Boxing, Chess, Volleyball, Shooting, Weightlifting, Mixed Martial Arts