PROTECTION OF AZERBAIJAN'S NATIONAL INTERESTS WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF REGIONAL AND BILATERAL TRADE AGREEMENTS

Abstract

This article examines the multifaceted dimensions of protecting Azerbaijan’s national interests through participation in regional and bilateral trade agreements. It explores the mechanisms by which economic, political, and security-related concerns are addressed and balanced in trade policy. Drawing on a qualitative methodology combining document analysis, expert interviews, and case-study comparisons, this research critically analyzes how Azerbaijan engages with institutions such as the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS)-region, and bilateral partners such as Turkey, Georgia, and the european union. the purpose of the study is to characterize the ways of forming the protection of Azerbaijan's national interests within the framework of regional and bilateral trade agreements. The object of the study is the Azerbaijan's national interests within the framework of regional and bilateral trade agreements. Research methods - modern methods and technologies of scientific knowledge, methods and techniques for conducting scientific research, tools for systemic, comprehensive, economic analysis, principles of managing enterprises and their labor resources. They allow us to consider existing approaches to managing innovations in the activities of enterprises in modern economic conditions. The hypothesis of the study. The ways of forming the protection of Azerbaijan's national interests depend on the terms of regional and bilateral trade agreements. Presentation of the main materials. The literature review highlights theoretical frameworks of economic statecraft, trade diplomacy, and strategic autonomy, and situates Azerbaijan’s experience within broader debates on small-to-medium states’ leverage in global trade governance. Key findings reveal that Azerbaijan successfully leverages energy export agreements, customs regulations, and tariff preferences to achieve macroeconomic stability, diversification goals, and geopolitical balancing. However, tension remains between openness and safeguards for strategic industries. The originality and practical significance of the study are confirmed by the proposed philosophy of innovation management at enterprises in modern conditions. Conclusions and prospects for further research. The research contributes empirical evidence to understand how resource-rich, transit-oriented economies negotiate national interest within trade liberalization frameworks. The article concludes with policy recommendations that include enhanced domestic institution-building, transparent investor-state dispute resolution, and strategic use of trade alliances to safeguard national sovereignty without impeding integration ambitions