. Azerbaijan and its Neighbourhood in 2003-2013. Baku, Strateji Araşdırmalar Mərkəzi, 2014.

The past decade (2003-2013) has seen significant development and changes in Azerbaijan, as well as the South Caucasus region as a whole. Until the mid-1990s, there was little global awareness about Azerbaijan or the surrounding region. It was mainly associated with oil, conflicts and collapsed economies. However, starting with the presidency of charismatic leader Heydar Aliyev, this situation changed. Over the course of Heydar Aliyev's presidency, thanks to his colossal efforts and skillful policy, Azerbaijan was transformed from an unknown post-Soviet country with a ruined economy to a reliable and desired partner for regional and global powers. The internal political situation was stabilized; the rule of law was restored; social, political and economic modernization processes were launched and strong foundations for future economic development were laid.