The growing role of the South Caucasus in contemporary world politics is indisputable. In the context of emerging threats, accelerated processes towards globalization and the revolution in information and communication technology, the South Caucasus, lying at the crossroads of a geopolitically strategic zone and considered to be the most potentially explosive region in the world, becomes all the more important. Despite their recent independence, the countries of this region have attracted the attention of dominant powers and have been visited by many prominent decision-makers over the last 15 years.
Three of the world's four frozen conflicts are based in the region; this brings numerous decision-makers, conflict specialists and experts on quests seeking "permanent peace". Bordering the Islamic Republic of Iran, Turkey and Russia - the most important players in the region - the South Caucasus promises to be a real battleground for diplomats.
In light of the fluidity of the situation here, the importance of building a knowledge-based society and a pool of regional experts becomes more evident. With this and many other objectives in mind, Azerbaijan intends to hold an international conference, in Baku, in late October 2010, in order to develop a systematic and sustainable platform of communication, involving experts on the region from around the world. It is planned to make this an annual conference which will provide a basis for the continuous development of new levels of discussion.
