Abstract The end of the Cold War led to significant changes in the system of international relations. Central Asia has been one of the most affected regions among these changes. With the collapse of the Soviet Union, the Turkic republics, which were former Soviet republics, declared their independence and began to operate as independent states in the international arena. The Turkic world, which has been under the influence of the Soviet administration for many years, has entered the stage of national state building and reshaping of its identity. In this context, it is necessary to evaluate the unity in the Turkic world not only on the basis of cultural identity, but also from a broader perspective, where political and economic interests are taken into account. The social constructivist approach has significant potential in terms of explaining the unity among Turkic states in the context of identity. However, it is important to take into account the specific national interests of each Turkic state. Thus, the neofunctionalist approach provides an important analytical framework to better understand the depth of the issue. Neofunctionalist theory suggests that cooperation in various fields can expand over time and create conditions for deeper political integration. The formation and development of the European Union is the most obvious example of this approach. With the same logic, the strengthening of cultural and economic cooperation between the Turkish states can form the basis of political integration in the future. Purpose of the study: The purpose of this study is to analyze the process of organizing Azerbaijan's relations with the countries of the Turkic world and the role of TURKSOY in this process. The main goal is to assess the impact of cultural cooperation between the Turkic states on political integration and determine the position of Azerbaijan in this process. The methodology: Within the framework of the research, the available scientific literature was analyzed, statistical data was examined, and concrete examples related to the activity of TURKSOY were analyzed. Subject of the study: The main subject of the study is the development of cultural and political relations between Azerbaijan and the countries of the Turkic world and the role played by TURKSOY in this process. Results of the study: Azerbaijan, by actively participating in the framework of TURKSOY, has strengthened its relations with the Turkic world and taken significant steps towards the protection and promotion of its common cultural heritage. This cooperation process has not only protected national interests, but also created conditions for the establishment of closer relations based on common identity and values.
Azerbaijan, TURKSOY, Turkic states, culture