Economic and geographical characteristics of Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan - brief information Quick message about Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan - Inadequately picturesque country with its unique "raisins". Azerbaijan Metaphorically master the "country of lights", since its territory is rich in oil and gas fields, close to the surface by flames and fried from the ground. The imaginable imagination natural panoramas of this country is replete with contrasting species: here you can simultaneously observe all 4 years of year! Luxury architectural forms growing up skyscrapers, original modern urban style on the western manner neighboring the old buildings, ancient palaces and fortresses. And at first glance, it is difficult to determine, and is it really an eastern country?

Primitive people settled the territory of modern Azerbaijan more than 1.5 million years ago, which was favorable climate and natural conditions. To this day, in some areas of Azerbaijan, testimonies of their stay in this territory of the ancient people are preserved: Zoroastrian Temple Ateshgyah, city Shamaha (remember the Pushkin Shamakhan Queen?), Chukhur-Gabala, Sheki and, of course, archaeological reserve Gobustan., famous thanks to the huge amount of carved images on the stones - Petroglyphs, the age of which has 4-5 thousand years!

A completely different life is boiling in the capital of Azerbaijan - Beautiful Baku, biggest city on Caucasus and large port on Caspian Sea. Souvenir shops and thematic shops, luxurious restaurants and cozy cafes work on lively brightly lit streets. Here you can eat delicious, relax, recking the dismantled hookah, and plunge into the dance under the eastern rhythms. Baku is very interesting for visiting from the point of view of attractions and historical places: Baku Embankmentwho admires the tourist every day; Flag area, whose flagpole ranks second in the world in height; Old city (Icheri-Sheher), scenes from famous Soviet films were filmed on his streets; "Fire Towers" - the highest buildings in Azerbaijan, reminiscent of the 3rd flame language; Modern cultural Center them. Heydar Aliyev, the design of which was the best in the world in 2014, and many others.

Friendly and friendly Azerbaijanis are hospitable, open and always ready to help you if necessary. And how are the taste of national dishes are unmatched! Moreover, the masterpieces of Azerbaijani cuisine are also good for health - it is well known that Caucasian peoples belong to the number of long-livers of our planet.

Welcome to the "Fire" Azerbaijan, his amazing contrasts will hit you in the heart!

Useful information for traveling to Azerbaijan

General information about Azerbaijan.

Location. Azerbaijan is located in the south-east of the Transcaucasus. It borders with Russia, Georgia, Iran, Armenia and Turkey. In the east, the territory of Azerbaijan is washed by the waters of the Caspian Sea. Almost half of the territory of Azerbaijan has a mountain relief. In the north - the Ridge of the Caucasus, in the middle part - the Kura-Arak lowland, in the south-east - the Talysh Mountains and Lenkran lowland. The highest point of the country is Mount Bazarduzyu (4466 m). For similar latitudes are located in Spain, Greece, Turkey and Korea.

Area. 86.6 thousand square meters. km. The length of Azerbaijan from north to south is about 400 km, from west to east - about 500 km. The territory of Azerbaijan also includes the small islands of the Caspian Sea (Baku and Absheron archipelago).

Population. About 9.7 million people (2016 data). As of July 1, 2013, the urban population was 53.1%, and rural - 46.9%. Population density: 112 people / km2. Ingredients: 91.6% Azerbaijanis, 2% of Lezgina, 1.4% Armenians, 1.3% Russian, 1.3% of Тальши, less than 1% Avara, Turks, Tatars, Ukrainians, Kurds, Jews, etc.

Political structure. Azerbaijan is a democratic legal secular unitary republic. It is part of the CIS. The state power system of the Republic of Azerbaijan is based on the principle of separation of the authorities to the legislative (Milli Majlis - the National Assembly), executive (president) and judicial (courts of the Republic of Azerbaijan).

Administrative-territorial division. Geographically, Azerbaijan is divided into 66 districts, 11 cities and the 1st Autonomous Republic - the Nakhichevan Republic of Autonomous Republic.

Capital. Baku city with a population of more than 2.1 million inhabitants. Baku - the largest city in the Caucasus, the largest economic, industrial and scientific and technical center Transcaucasia And the largest port in the Caspian Sea.

Official language. Azerbaijani (Turkic group of languages). Russian language is not official in Azerbaijan, but is actively used among residents of Baku and other major cities. However, outside the capital, the number of people who know Russian, significantly decreased after the collapse of the USSR. Young people own English.

Currency unit . Azerbaijan manat. There are numerous exchange offices in the republic, where according to the current exchange rate, currency can be exchanged. Such items often work around the clock in Baku, major cities and airports. In addition, money can be exchanged in banks and some hotels.

Religion. According to the Constitution, Azerbaijan is a secular state. Approximately 99.2% of the country's population confess Islam: about 85% - Shiite Muslims, about 15% - Muslim Sunni. Orthodoxy is weakly distributed in Azerbaijan, there are 6 Orthodox churches in the country, 3 of which are located in Baku. Judaist communities are considered active and influential.

Standard time zone. UTC / GMT +4 hour.

Electricity. The voltage in the power grids of Azerbaijan is 220/240 volts, the frequency of the current is 50 Hz. Standard double plug socket (with ground).

Climate in Azerbaijan.

Best time to visit Azerbaijan - period from April to June and September-October. The territory of Azerbaijan is interesting in that it combines 9 climatic zones from 11 existing in the world, from subtropics to the alpine alpine meadows.

In Azerbaijan quite a large number sunny days. The temperature regime is formed depending on the characteristics of the incoming air flow, the diversity of relief and the degree of distance from the Caspian Sea. The average January temperature ranges from -10 ° C in highlands to +3 ° C in the lowlands, July - from +5 ° C to + 27 ° C, respectively. The temperature maximum in the summer comes to + 45 ° C, and in winter, the temperature in the mountainous areas is lowered to -40 ° C.

Infected strong winds from the north, mainly in the fall. The amount of atmospheric precipitation varies from 200 mm per year in the foothills of the Caucasus up to 1200-1700 mm per year on the Lenkran lowland.

How to dress in Azerbaijan.

When choosing a set of clothing for traveling to Azerbaijan, the climate features should be taken into account depending on the time of year. For trips from May to September, it is better to give preference to light summer clothes from cotton fabrics, and in the winter it is not without insulated jackets and a raincoat. In the summer, it is necessary to have sunscreens and a headdress with you. At the time of excursions you will be useful to the most comfortable shoes, including sneakers or sneakers, especially when visiting stony areas.

There are no strict rules when choosing clothes in Azerbaijan, especially in large cities. However, you should not wear causing clothes: women should abandon tight silhouettes, mini-skirts and deep cuts, and men recommend to exclude shorts and shirts from their wardrobe.

Local residents themselves seek to dress in a business, women prefer elegant style, flawless makeup and high heel.

When visiting religious places, be sure to be dressed in modest closed clothes and have a handkerchief or a scarf with it, and when entering the house to the locals, you need to remove shoes.

Kitchen of Azerbaijan.

The national cuisine of Azerbaijan is famous for the abundance of exquisite and unique dishes: meat, fish, vegetable, dairy and flour delicacies, brought to perfection of fragrant greens and spices.

In Azerbaijan in the food diet, the bread, to which belongs quite respectfully, is of paramount importance. For example, if a piece of bread fell to the floor, it certainly needs to raise, kiss and ask for forgiveness. Bread baked on a slightly convex iron sheet sadge in tandaraintended for baking Chureka and pita. Spring and autumn popular cook gutab - Thin pies made of fresh dough in the form of crescent, stuffed with meat, greens, cottage cheese, pumpkin, etc.

A special diversity is characteristic of meat dishes, koi in Azerbaijani cuisine there are a great set. Wide distribution received basturma (dried with beef meat cut) and barbecue, as well as dense soups from lamb - pit and bozbash. Popular also kelie Dolmasy - wrapped in cabbage leaves chopped lamb, mixed with rice and spices, Liampg Dolmas - lamb, eggplants and tomatoes wrapped in grape leaves, and lulle-Kebab - finely chopped lamb, seasoned with onion and fragrant spices. Sadge Also called the meat dish cooked from lamb slices in vegetable assorted.

In Azerbaijan, rice dishes are used in Azerbaijan, especially pilaf, which in the "country of lights" has about 50 variations. The favorite and most characteristic dish of poultry meat is considered chigartma. As a rule, after lunch (especially after the Plov) serves dov Out of sour milk and greens.

Azerbaijani cuisine is famous for its unsurpassed in taste characteristics of sweets, which will not be able to resist not one, even the most indifferent to the whole sweetheart: leg, nabat, shekekerbura, gata., pahlava, kozinaki, halva, turkish Delight, plot figs and sherbet (honey sweetened by honey). A significant place in the daily trapes of Azerbaijanis has teaWith which not only accompany food intake process, but also foresee it. First, tea is served, after that they offer to taste the second dishes. The table is covered with sweet dishes: Baku Pahlava, jams from figs, dogwood, cherries, white cherries, walnut and watermelon.

Power rate in Azerbaijan.

The program of the traditional round includes accommodation in hotels with breakfast. For your convenience, we can book places in restaurants. In case you prefer to do it yourself, we bring exemplary rates that in different regions may differ slightly.

Visa and registration.

Entrance to Azerbaijan is carried out by overseas passport. For citizens of Russia and some CIS countries for up to 90 days installed unlessless Mode of entry to Azerbaijan. More information about the conditions for obtaining a visa to Azerbaijan, the list of necessary documents, the timing of the design and tariffs of consular fees can be found.

Please note, even if there is a tourist of Azerbaijani visa, he can be denied entrepreneurs to Azerbaijan if his passport is a mark on visiting Nagorno-Karabakh, the occupied territory of Azerbaijan.

At the time of staying in Azerbaijan, it is necessary to have a document certifying the identity, or its copy with a visa on entry into the country (for citizens of the visa regime countries).

All foreign citizens who stay in Azerbaijan more than 10 days must have been undergoing a procedure for 9 days from the moment of arrival. registration In the State Migration Service of Azerbaijan. To do this, personally either e-mail Provide a completed registration form to the State Migration Service, a copy of the passport and a copy of the visa (for citizens of the visa regime countries). Hotels assist in this procedure to their guests, but tourists living in private apartments or hotels that have no license must be passing through the registration itself. Registration is absolutely free, but the lack of registration can lead to a fine of 300-400 manat.

Customs rules of Azerbaijan.

To enter Azerbaijan, you must have a foreign passport with you, and it is also recommended to fill out customs Declaration With the exact amount of cash. The declaration should be related to the signature and seal of the customs officer and stored before departure from Azerbaijan.

Import of foreign currency Not limited subject to the completion of the customs declaration. If you bring less than 1000 US dollars or less than this amount in another currency, filling out the customs declaration is optional. Export of foreign currency Allowed within the amount delivered to Azerbaijan in accordance with the Customs Declaration.

You can import up to 1.5 liters of strong drinks to Azerbaijan and up to 2 liters of wine (for persons over 16 years old). To take antiques and carpets from Azerbaijan, you need to have a special permission from the official services. It is allowed to take up to 125 gr. Icres, 3 cigarette blocks and such a number of medicines, which is enough for their own needs.

Currency of Azerbaijan.

National currency of Azerbaijan - Azerbaijani manat (AZN). In the circulation there are banknotes in dignity 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 manat, as well as coins 1, 3, 5, 10, 20, 50 gyapiki. 1 manat is 100 gipicles. Exchange currency is possible in banks, hotels and numerous currency exchange items. Exchange items often work around the clock (in Baku, major cities and airports). When exchanging money in the amount of more than $ 500, it is necessary to make an identity card. The course of the National Bank may differ from the course of private banks. To verify the real course at the time of the trip, we recommend contacting the resource of the International Bank of Azerbaijan.

ATMs are available only in major cities of Azerbaijan. In the center of Baku, they can be found at every step. At least one ATM is even in the smallest regional center. In Baku, banks work from 9: 00-9: 30 to 17:00. In public holidays and weekends, banks and their branches do not work in hotels, so you can exchange currency only in the republic's duty bank.

Credit cards Master Card or Visa in Azerbaijan can be used in boutiques, expensive restaurants and large hotels. Credit cards are not accepted in some grocery stores, cafes, hotels and boarding houses. The use of credit cards in the province is practically impossible.

Photographing in Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan is replete with captivating species and fascinating panoramas that cannot be left unprofitable. In this country, it is allowed to carry out ordinary tourist photos and video filming. The exception is metropolitan, airports, bus stations, oil refineries, factories and other protected objects prohibited for photographing. For photography, a separate board may be charged.

Tips in Azerbaijan.

In many large restaurants Baku, the percentage of service is specified in the menu, usually 5-10% of the account. If there is no mention of this, then 10% can be added to the amount of the account (sometimes in advance, it will speed up the service). At the same time, some cafes leave the right to decide for their customers, leave tips or not. If you really liked how you were served, it would be appropriate to thank the waiter 10% of the amount specified in the account.

Porter at the airport or hotel, depending on the number of baggage, you can leave 5-10 manat. In a taxi, tip is not accepted, you should discuss the fare in advance. Please note that taxi drivers usually do not accept currency.

Remember the opportunity to bargain, especially in the markets and in private stores, - you can easily bring down the price 2 times!

Souvenirs of Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan is famous for inimitable art folk crafts. You will definitely not break your head about the fact that you bring to your homeland from the journey through this bright and hospitable land. The decision itself will come to you as only you will look into souvenir benches. From this sea of \u200b\u200boscillates, without doubt, you will find what you will like your soul. The most important souvenir of Azerbaijan is considered carpets, as well as unique carpet Azerbaijani bags, carpeted supports for kettle and cups. Valuable vintage carpets are impossible to export from the country, but to buy a new carpet with extraordinary beauty is quite possible. You can learn more about this from your guide before shopping.

Wonderful souvenir will be pear-shaped glasses "Armududa" (Crystal and painted with colored patterns) in which tea has long been hot, as well as white cherry jam. This unusual treats for their favorite sweet teeth can be bought in stores in tightly sealed banks, which guarantees long preservation of delicacy.

You can add a "highlight" of your kitchen by bringing the original from Azerbaijan tablecloth from butt - National Azerbaijani Pattern, as well as copper dishes. The tablecloths are made of dense fabric with gold embroidery, it looks smart, practical and easily erased. From copper in Azerbaijan, jugs are produced under wine, plates with chasing, vases and samovars, used not only as a piece of decor, but also for its intended purpose.

The souvenir market of Azerbaijan is replete with jewelry, ceramics, wooden carved products (pay attention to the backs of handmade), subjects national costume, local silk products, painted in batik technique and, of course, wines.

Among this ocean, a variety of souvenirs there is a whole sea of \u200b\u200bpleasant gifts and for children of different ages. Be prepared for the fact that children in souvenir shops will want to buy absolutely everything! Well, capture a spare suitcase for souvenirs.

National holidays in Azerbaijan.

State symbols of Azerbaijan: flag, coat of arms and anthem.

Consists of three horizontal isometric strips of blue, red and green colors. In the middle of the Red Stripe on both sides of the flag placed white Crescent and eight-pointed star. The aspect ratio of the Flag of the Republic of Azerbaijan - 1: 2. Blue reflects the Turkic origin of the Azerbaijani people. Red color symbolizes the orientation for the construction of modern society and the development of democracy. Green color - color islam. Azerbaijan Tricolor is a symbol of the Turkic national culture, a modern democratic society and Muslim civilization.

Crescent on the flag symbolizes Islam, as well as Turkic peoples. The eight-pointed star personifies the 8 branches of Turkic-speaking peoples and 8 letters of the name "Azerbaijan" Arabic alphabet. There is a version according to which the eight-pointed star means 8 traditional peoples living in Azerbaijan.

Coat of arms of Azerbaijan It is an oriental shield against an arc woven from the green branches of oak and yellow wheat branches. The shield symbolizes the military power of the state and heroism, the branches of oak - fame and strength, the antiquity of the state, and the euros - fertility and abundance. In the center of the coat of arms on the shield, against the background of the colors of the flag of Azerbaijan, the white eight-pointed star is depicted, in the heart of which red fire burns, symbolizing the "country of lights" - Azerbaijan. The fire in Heraldry means progress, this symbol is also reminded of fireproofing of Azerbaijanis in ancient times and traditions associated with the worship of fire (Novruz holiday). The state coat of arms of Azerbaijan personifies the independence of the Azerbaijani state.

Anthem Azerbaijan He was adopted on May 27, 1992 after the restoration of independence of Azerbaijan. Words Ahmed Javad, music of Uzeir Gadzhibekova.

Telephone codes in Azerbaijan.

International Code of Azerbaijan: +994 (8-10 994)

Telephone codes of urban lines of large cities of Azerbaijan.

Leading cellular operators of Azerbaijan:

Foreign embassies and consulates in Azerbaijan.

In Baku, there are 51 embassies and consulates of various countries of the world.

Embassies and consulates of Azerbaijan abroad.

Azerbaijan has 60 diplomatic missions in Europe and Asia, as well as in Canada and North Africa.

Reference services of Azerbaijan.

Abstract of students of 8- "B" class of gymnasium named after AS. Pushkin Reznikova Vadim and Zhigul Marina.

General.

Azerbaijan is located in the Eastern Transcaucasus. Its territory extends from the main Caucasian ridge to the mountains of the Small Caucasus and Talysh. In the north, Azerbaijan borders on Dagestan, in the West with Armenia and Georgia. In the east, Azerbaijan adjoins the Caspian Sea.

The capital of Azerbaijan - Baku.

Azerbaijan on the square is the largest of the Transcaucasian republics. Its area is about 86.6 thousand square meters. km, population - 6303 thousand people.

The natural conditions of Azerbaijan are surprisingly diverse: from the warm and wet subtropics of the Lenkran lowland and talysh to the snowy highland of the Big Caucasus.

Numerous rivers have significant energy resources, which creates favorable conditions for the construction of hydrostations with reservoirs and artificial irrigation systems.

Azerbaijani subsoil contain valuable minerals: oil and gas, alunites, polymetals, copper ore, gold, molybdenum and others. The republic also has a variety of raw materials for the building materials industry: marble, kaolin, tuff, dolomite, clay.

Among the natural wealth, a special place belongs to the wonderful climatic and hydrothery resorts of Azerbaijan. They enjoy deserved glory far beyond the republic.

The life of the population of Azerbaijan is closely related to the Caspian Sea. Such sectors of the national economy, such as oil production and the fishing industry, sea transport and ship repair, are closely connected with the Caspian Natural Resources.

Population

In terms of population, Azerbaijan ranks first among the Republics of Transcaucasia. 6303 thousand people live here. In addition to the indigenous population - Azerbaijanis (4709 thousand people, 78.1% of the total population) in the republic live Armenians, Russians, Dagestanis and representatives of other nationalities.

A significant number of Azerbaijanis lives in Neighbor Georgia (256 thousand) and Armenia (161 thousand), as well as in Russia (152 thousand) and in other republics. Outside the former USSR, Azerbaijanis live mainly in Iran.

Among the long-lasting states of the region should be mentioned by Iranian-speaking tats, talysh, Kurds, as well as Georgian-Ingilatsev. Currently, the tats inhabit the northeast, and Talyshi - the southeastern regions of Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijanis refer to the special Caspian anthropological type of southern European views. They are characterized by medium height, narrow graceful features of the face and dark color Hair, eye and skin. On the territory of Azerbaijan, this anthropological type is known from the end of the Bronze - the beginning of the Iron Age.

The Azerbaijani language belongs to the Ogzovskaya - South-Western - group of Turkic languages. The penetration of the Turkic speech into the territory of Azerbaijan belongs to the IV-V centuries. n. er, when the nomadic tribes of the Bulgarians and Huns who made raids from North Caucasian steppes began to settle here. In the next century, the coordinated caresses are penetrated here. In the XI - XIII centuries. There is a displacement of the previous local laws - Aran and Azeri - the Turkic language of the entire population of Azerbaijan. In the XIII century. The first literary works appear in Azerbaijani.

In the Soviet years, Azerbaijani has become an official state language throughout the country.

Believers Azerbaijanis confess Islam Shiite and Sunni sense.

Farm

Azerbaijan is an industrial country with highly developed industry and mechanized multi-sectoral agriculture. The most important place in the farm of Azerbaijan is occupied by oil and gas, refineries, chemical, engineering, mining and non-ferrous metallurgy. Diverse industries of food and light industry. Agriculture specializes mainly in viticulture, gardening, tobacco-growing, vegetable growing, animal husbandry and silkground.

In the total volume of the gross social product of the Republic of the Republic 2/3 accounts for industry, 1/6 - on agriculture, 1/10 - for construction, the rest of the trade and other non-production industries.

Azerbaijan supplies in other countries the products of the chemical and fuel industry, color and black metallurgy, mechanical engineering and metalworking, easy industry, etc. From other countries in Azerbaijan, ready-made products are imported in Azerbaijan: Machine tools, various agricultural machines, cars, clothing, food products .

Azerbaijan has close economic ties with many countries of the world, which exports about 350 types of industrial products, including mobile drilling rigs, lifting assemblies, mobile tower, fountain fittings, depth pumps, electric motors, geophysical instruments, petroleum products, lightweight and food industries .

In the structure of national income (1991,%): Industry 54.2, Agriculture 36.7. Electricity production 23.3 billion kWh h (1991), mainly on the TPP.

Square of agricultural land 4.2 million hectares (1990). Sowing area of \u200b\u200b1463 thousand hectares (1990), including grain 40% (mainly wheat), feed 36%, technical crops 20%. Main technical crops - cotton, tobacco, tea. Gross grain collection of 1.4 million tons (1990), raw cotton 543 thousand tons, grapes 1196 thousand tons. Early vegetable growing, subtropical fruit growing. The area of \u200b\u200birrigated land is 1401 thousand hectares (1990). The main branches of animal husbandry are sheep-flowering, milk-meat cattle breeding, poultry farming. Sericulture. Operational length (1991, thousand km): Railways 2.09; Total use roads 36.7, including solid coating, 32. The main port is Baku, connected by rail ferries with the ports of the eastern coast of the Caspian m. (Krasnovodsk, Aktau, Bekdash). Shipping by Kura. Pipeline transport. Resorts: Ostsu, Naftalan, Absheron Group, etc.

(4 466 m)

Geological structure

Minerals

The territory of the republic is rich in minerals of three species: ore, non-metallic and fuel by origin.

The largest number of natural gas deposits is located in Garadag, the shelf zone of the Caspian Sea, Baku and the Absheron Archipelago. Small Caucasus is rich in ore deposits. Here there are deposits of iron, titanium, gold, silver, copper, cobalt, chromite, polymetals, molybdenum, etc. The largest deposits of iron ore are located in Dashkes.

Gobustan, Absheron and Tovuz limestone, Shakhtashinsky Travertine (Nakhichevan AR), Dashkesan Marble, Verkhne-Adzhikendsky Gypsum, Quartz Sands of Gajivel have great importance to great importance.

Climate

Natural conditions Azerbaijan is diverse - from the warm and wet subtropics of the Lenkran lowland and talysh to the snowy highland of the Big Caucasus.

2). Rivers relating to the pool of the River Araz (Arpa, Nakhichevan, Okchu, Aker, Kendelene).

3). Rivers, directly flowing into the Caspian Sea (Samur, Kudial, Wellele, Vilyash, Lankaran, etc.).

On the territory of Azerbaijan steppe and semi-desert Kura-Araksinskaya lowland has the character, on which the Shirvan, Karabakh, Milsk, Muganan, Salian Steppe, in the northeastern part of the Republic - Samur-Absheron district (Cuba-Khachmaz Lowland, Plain Bogat, etc.) and Lankaran lowland, which occupies the Northern Half of the area.

Report on: Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan

Territory

Azerbaijan was part of the USSR until 1991. Today it is not a dependent state located in the southeastern part of the Transcaucasia. It borders in the north with Russia, in the West with, Georgia and Turkey, in the south with Iran. All these borders are clearly outlined by mountain borders - the Bolshoi Caucasus, the Small Caucasus and Talysh. In the East is washed by the Caspian Sea, through the Caspian Sea, through the water area of \u200b\u200bwhich has direct exits in Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan.3 and 2 century BC. e. Her residents were engaged in livestock and agriculture on irrigated lands and were skillful artisans. At the end of the 5th century, Azerbaijan was captured by Iran. Subsequently, Arabs, Mongols, Turkieljuki invaded here.

Natural resources

Mountains, occupying 2/3 of the territory, as if binding Azerbaijan. Between them is an extensive intergranium deflection, the main part that is Kurinsky Plain. Plots lying below sea level occupy 1/3 of the plain territory. Azerbaijan from all the Transcaucasian states is the most rich in minerals. There are a special place in their own place. Satellite - natural gas is equally important. Speaking about oil, it is impossible to bypass its silence of its unique variety - therapeutic oil naphthalan. Ringapercase in the mountains of the Small Caucasus are the largest in the Caucasus. In the region of the castle, the world's largest deposit of Aluntein. Nearby there are large reserves of cobalt ores - the most valuable raw materials. The sulfuric collegiate occurs, from which sulfuric acid is obtained. The varieties of ore minerals on the northern slopes of the Small Caucasus brought this area the name "Azerbaijan Ural". The stone salt, ore, arsenic, molybdenum are produced here.

Population

In 1997, 7.6 million people live in Azerbaijan, of which 54% - in cities. Alpine areas and arid areas of Kurinskaya plains have a low population density. Azerbaijanis constitute the absolute majority of the population - 82.7%. The Russians before the collapse of the USSR amounted to almost 6% of the population, but then a significant part of them left the country. In Nagorno-Karabakh and Nakhichevan Autonomy, the majority of Armenians are historically living. Dagestan and Iranian-speaking people, Tatars, Jews, Turks also live. Most big City - the capital of Baku (1.8 million people) Big Baku occupies almost the entire Absheron Persh and includes the oilfields nominated in the sea.

Socio-economic situations.

In 1996 For the first time since the independence since independence, in Azerbaijan managed to suspend the decline in GDP. The volume of investments in the country's economy rapidly increased, which is mainly due to the start of implementation in the economy of the International Oil Project. Many small businesses were privatized. This brought a state a considerable profit. Lived cycle is still not high therefore a problem is growing unemployment. In real varyhaamy more than 1 million people are refugees.

Industry.

The basis of the territorial structure of the economy - Baku-Absheronsky district. There are 4/5-crushed products of the country. The central link in the industry of Azerbaijan is occupied by the fuel-energy complex: it amounted to 1995 in the industry's industry structure of 68.3%. Azerbaijan is one of the countries of the world of areas of gas production and oil. Azerbayjan is also black metallurgy, mechanical engineering, food and light industry.

The official name is the Azerbaijan Republic. Located in the Eastern Transcaucasus. The area is 86.6 thousand km2, the population is 8.2 million people. (2002). State language - Azerbaijani. Capital - Baku (2 million people, 2002). Public Holidays: Republic Day on May 28 (from 1918), Independence Day October 18 (since 1991), Constitution Day on November 12 (from 1995), National Revival Day on November 17. Monetary unit - manat. Member of the CIS, UN and its specialized organizations, OSCE, Council of Europe, WTO (observer), EBRD, IBRD, IMF, OECD, etc.

Sights of Azerbaijan

Geography of Azerbaijan

It is located between 44 ° and 52 ° East longitude and 38 ° and 42 ° of northern latitude. Washed by the Caspian Sea, the length of the coastline is 800 km. Azerbaijan includes three Peninsula: Absheronsky (2000 km2), Sarah (100 km2) and Kurinskaya Spit (76 km2), as well as numerous islands: Artem (PIR-Allahi) (14.4 km2), residential (chills) (11 , 5 km2), Bulla (Hera-Zire) (3.5 km2), Nargin (Beyuk-Zire), Clay (Gilzire), Pork (Mugan Senks), Duchny (Ambil), Wulf (Dash-Zire). In the north, Azerbaijan is bordered by the Russian Federation, in the north-west with Georgia, in the West with Armenia, in the south with Iran and in the Far South-West with Turkey.

The territory of Azerbaijan combines extensive flat lowlands under the level of the world's ocean, and mountain peaks, deserts and alpine meadows, salt marshes and subtropical forests. In the north, Azerbaijan rises a large Caucasus - the main and side ridges. Higher points: Bazaar-Duses (4466 m), Shahdag (4243 m), Tufandag (4191 m), Salavatsky Pass (2895 m). In the south-west of Azerbaijan there is a small Caucasus. Higher Points: Kapugzhik (3906 m), Giant Fesdag (3724 m), Bichenek Pass (2345 m). A Karabakh volcanic Highland, the highest point of which is a big shelch (3552 m) between the ridges and the spurs of the Small Caucasus. In the south-east, Azerbaijan is located the Talysh Mountains, which descend to the Lenkran lowland, the highest points: Kemurkoy (2477 m) and Kyzurdu (2438 m).

More than 1/2 territory of Azerbaijan is occupied by lowlands. The biggest - Kura-Araksinskaya, originated by inclined plains and lowlands. In addition, on the territory of the republic there are raised Kusarskaya and Chairuro-Ordubad, inclined plains and Samur-Divician lowland. More than 1000 rivers flow through the territory of Azerbaijan, but only 21 of them have a length of more than 100 km. All rivers belong to the Caspian Sea basin, the largest: Kura (1364 km) and Araks (1072 km). In the republic there is an irrigation system regulated by reservoirs. There are only six of them: Mini-Prone, Varvarina, Sarsangskoye, Jayransbatan, Akstafa, Arpachaski. The largest mini-property, in the middle of the chicken. The main irrigation canals - Verkhnekarabakh and Verkhneshirevsky originate from it. There are 250 lakes in Azerbaijan, 6 of them have an area of \u200b\u200bmore than 10 km2.

The vegetation of Azerbaijan is characterized by a variety of species (St. 4100), among which there are rare and disappearing. Spicy breeds are common in the forests. There are separate relict arrays of century-old trees. In the deserts and semi-deserts of the plain areas, the hollow, long-shaling and semi-stabbed vegetation is dominated. The plains live rodents, reptiles and reptiles, as well as Ceyrana. Representatives of European forests are common on the slopes of the Big Caucasus. In shallow bays of the Caspian Sea, the world of birds is diverse.

In Azerbaijan, large oil reserves, industrial gas deposits, magnetic Zheleznyak (Dashkesan), stone salt (Nakhichevan), marble, tufa, pembays are explored in Azerbaijan. In various parts of the republic, deposits of polymetallic ores containing gold, silver, copper. In total, more than 70 fields of oil and gas are located in Azerbaijan, more than 40 ore and sv. 300 non-metallic deposits.

Most of Azerbaijan is located in a subtropical belt. Several types of climate are distinguished - from dry and wet subtropical (Lankaran) to mountain tundra. Soil: from the mountain-meadow alpine high spirits to serozoes semi-deserts and yellowing in Lankaran subtropics.

Population of Azerbaijan

Birth rate of 18.44 ‰, mortality 9.55 ‰ (2001). The average life expectancy of 63 years (58.6 years for men and 67.5 years for women). Children's mortality 83.08 people. on 1000 newborns. According to estimates, in 2001, children and adolescents under the age of 15 accounted for 32%. Women in the republic are more than men (4.4 million and 3.9 million people, respectively). The predominance of the female population is explained by high mortality among men and their more intense migration ability. The cities live 51% of the population. The dynamics of the growth of the rural population exceeds urban performance almost 2 times.

The number of economically active population is 3.776 million people. (2002). For 1991-2001, approximately 1.5 million people went to Russia for earnings. The number of pensioners is 1215 thousand people. (Con. 2001). Retirement age: for men 62 years, for women 57 years.

The educational level of the population is quite high. Secondary education has 98% of the country's adult population. Azerbaijanis account for 91% of the country's population, Dagestanis 3.2%, Russians 2.5%, others (Ukrainians, Tatars, Tats, Kurds, Avars, Turks, Georgians) 3.3%. Despite the fact that the state language is Azerbaijani, the Russian language is often used in everyday life. By 2000, the Russian population decreased by more than 2.5 times, reaching 2002 150 thousand people. The number of Armenians living predominantly in Nagorno-Karabakh, by 2001 amounted to about 130 thousand people. The main religion is Islam. Most Muslims are adherents of Jafari school (Mazhab) in shiism. Approximately 70% of all Muslims - Shiites, 30% - Sunnis. Azerbaijan also has the Orthodox and Jewish community.

History of Azerbaijan

The first states in the territory of Azerbaijan arose at the beginning of the 1st thousand to AD. and were under the rule of Persia. Later, the territory of Azerbaijan was part of the tribal association Caucasian Albania subordinate to Sassanid Iran, then Arab Khalifat. From 8 c. The Turkization process began, Azerbaijani was formed. At 15 in. Azerbaijani state of Shirvanhakhov was formed. In 16-18 centuries. Azerbaijan was a field of confrontation between Turkey and Persia, to Ser. 18 V. About 15 khanats were formed on his land. In the 1st third of the 19th century. They were attached to Russia.

After the October Revolution in Russia in Baku on November 15, 1917, the Soviet government was established, but on May 28, 1918, the Azerbaijan National Council proclaimed the Azerbaijan Republic, immediately occupied by Turkey, then the Great Britain, which brought the troops only in August 1919.

The Soviet period of Azerbaijan began on April 28, 1920, when parts of the Red Army entered its territory. After the proclamation of independence of Azerbaijan on August 30, 1991, Ayaz Mutalibov was selected by the president, forced to resign in March 1992 as a result of military failures in Nagorno-Karabakh. In June 1992, the president was elected leader of the People's Front of Azerbaijan Abulfaz Elchibay, who also tolerated military failures. In the conditions of an exacerbated internal political situation, an economic situation was complicated. In June 1993, Elchibey fled from Baku in connection with the military insurgency raised against him. The government moved to Heydar Aliyev, who led the Azerbaijan SSR in 1969-82 as the first secretary of the Central Committee. In October 1993, he was elected president. In October 1998, Aliyev was re-elected to the position of head of state. In 2003, Heydar Aliyev died, his son Ilham Aliyev became president.

State Device and Political System of Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan - Democratic Legal State with the Republican Form of Management. There is 1995 Constitution.

Administrative division of Azerbaijan: 59 districts, Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic. The issue of Nagorno-Karabakh, around which many years of conflict continues. The total number of cities - 69, of which 11 are cities of republican subordination, the largest: Baku, Ganja (294.7 thousand people), Sumgait (279.2 thousand people), Mink Prone, Ali Bayramla, Nakhichevan, Lankaran .

Higher organ legislative power - Parliament (Milli Majlis), consisting of 125 deputies and elected for a period of 5 years on the basis of majority and proportional electoral systems and universal equal and direct elections by free, personal and secret ballot. The Parliament of Azerbaijan annually holds two sessions. Spring session - from February 1 to May 31, autumn - from September 30 to December 30.

The highest executive body is the Cabinet of Ministers, appointed by the President and approved by the Milli Majlis.

The head of state is the president, the president was introduced in 1991. The President is elected at the general election by secret ballot for a period of 5 years, but not more than two times.

In 2002, more than 30 parties operated. Since 1995, the leading political force has become a new Azerbaijan under the leadership of Aliyev. She owns most places in parliament. The leading opposition force in Parliament is the People's Front of Azerbaijan (Party of the former President of Elchibey). From other opposition parties in parliament, Musavat ("Equality") and a batch of national independence are presented. The Azerbaijan Social Democratic Party and the Azerbaijani People's Party include influential political organizations.

Among the public organizations of Azerbaijan, national minorities are allocated. The most authoritative organization of the Russian Diaspora is the Russian community, headed by M. Zabelin. The National Council of Youth Organizations is operating, which presents 46 youth public organizations (among them the organization of volunteers, disabled people, veterans of the Karabakh war, etc.).

The internal policy of the top leadership of Azerbaijan was aimed at stopping hostilities between Azerbaijan and Armenia in Nagorno-Karabakh and the liquidation of economic consequences of this war. One of the main tasks was the recreation and reform of the national economy, raising the living standards of the population.

Unresolved international issues include the mentioned problem of Nagorno-Karabakh and unresolved by 2003 questions about the boundaries between Azerbaijan, the Russian Federation, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Iran in the Caspian Sea.

There is a universal military duty in Azerbaijan. Service life (for 2000) - 17 months - can be somewhat increased in the ground forces. Armed Forces include land forces (number 55.6 thousand people), navy (2.2 thousand people), Air Force and air defense troops (8.1 thousand people) and border troops, organizationally included in The composition of the Ministry of the Interior (approximately 5 thousand people) (2000). In order to expand the preparation of higher national military personnel and specialists in the field of military sciences in Azerbaijan, the Academy of Armed Forces has been established. Azerbaijan military spending is estimated at 30-40 billion manat. Budget of the Ministry of Defense $ 120 million (1999). Azerbaijan has diplomatic relations with the Russian Federation, established on April 3, 1992.

Economy of Azerbaijan

In 2002, GDP (at current prices) amounted to 29.6 trillion. Manat, annual increase of 10.6%. From 2000, the GDP level steadily rises. The proportion of unobservable economy in the production of GDP, according to statistical services, 20-22%.

The number of registered unemployed 51 thousand people (end 2002). Unemployment 1.3% (according to unofficial data - much higher). The total number of 37,26.5 thousand people employed in the economy. The sectoral employment structure prevails the sphere of services (52.6%), then a rural, forestry, fisheries (32.1%) and industry (15.3%) are followed. Outside the public sector employs 68% of the total number of employed.

Production volume of industry 19,742 billion manat (at current prices, 2002). A rapid pace develops a metallurgical, chemical, light industry. Oil was produced, including gas-free republics of the former USSR, Azerbaijan, nevertheless, after receiving independence, could not preserve the previous level of industrial production volumes. By 2001 compared with 1991, industrial production was reduced by 2.7 times. By 1999, the production of products (at regular prices) of black and non-ferrous metallurgy decreased by 92-94%, chemical, petrochemical and food industries - 80-83%, easy industry, engineering and metalworking - by 72-73%. As a result, transport, communications and telecommunications were due to the most dynamic sectors of the economy, which was due to large investments (especially in the sphere of communication and communications).

At the beginning of the 21st century, the economy of Azerbaijan acquires mainly the raw material orientation. This applies not only to the industry, but also agriculture, where the volumes of solid areas of technical crops (for example, tobacco, cotton) are significantly reduced. Cotton was one of the oldest cultures cultivated in Azerbaijan and held up to 90% of all seeding of technical crops. His growing is focused in the Kura-Araksin lowland and in the western regions of the country. Tobacco is bred in foothill and mountainous areas. By 2002, the value of silverhood is almost reduced to zero.

Products of agriculture of all categories of 6.4 billion manat (2002, at current prices). The area of \u200b\u200bagricultural land is 4.6 million hectares, including Pashnya 1.8 million hectares (2001). The number of farms is 2.6 thousand (con. 2001), enshrined with the land area of \u200b\u200b23.4 thousand hectares (con. 2001). In con. 1990s. Square under feed and technical cultures decreased by 50%. In the size of the sowing space in the 1st place there are grain crops, which are busy on average 550 thousand hectares of land. In the structure of the grain in recent decades, about 70% accounted for wheat of solid grades, part of the square was covered with corn and barley. In 2002, there was an increase in the production of grain, potatoes and vegetables, mainly due to an increase in yield.

Traditionally, the most important sectors of Azerbaijan agriculture were viticulture and gardening. Square under grapes (mainly for wine production) exceeded 230 thousand hectares and were located mainly in Samur-Divician lowland and in the northeastern slopes of the Greater Caucasus. Gardens in Azerbaijan are employed over 150 thousand hectares. Cattle population 2153 thousand heads (con. 2002). In 2002 compared with 2001, meat production increased by 6%, all-milk products by 4%, vegetable oil 1.6 times. Cattle and poultry on slaughter (live weight) produced 224 thousand tons (from them by farms of the population and farms - 220 thousand tons) (2002). The main producers of milk and eggs were also farms.

Railway network - 2125 km. Main tracks (width of the rut - 1520 mm), of which 815 km are two-way and 1310 km of one-section (260 km. Blocked as a result of the war with Armenia). There are 1390 km of station and driveways. The total length of roads 25 thousand km., Of these, 94% of the roads with a firm coating. The total length of pipelines is 3000 km, of which oil pipelines are 1130 km, petroleum products 630 km, gas pipelines 1240 km. The trunk pipelines in 2002 were transferred to 5.3 million tons of gas (102% of the indicator 2001) and 10 million tons of oil (89%).

Azerbaijan has a seaside port in Baku. In Azerbaijan, 69 aerodromes (of which 29 have a runway with a solid coating). The volume of transportation of goods by transport by enterprises is 82.6 million tons. The total volume of cargo transportation by rail (importation, export, transit and internal transportation) increased in 2002 by 13% compared with the indicator 2001. The volume of transportation by road increased by 6%. Transportation of goods by the transport and port fleet increased by 11%, the turnover of the marine fleet - by 6%.

Azerbaijani airlords transported goods and mail more than 1.3%. Transportation of passengers 893.3 million people. Azerbaijani sea transport in 2002 compared with 2001 passengers were transported by 30% more, the carriage of passengers by rail was reduced by 4%. The airlines in 2002 have transported passengers by 5% more than in 2001.
Retail turnover (through all channel channels) in 2002 amounted to 13.4 trillion. Manat (rose by 9.6% compared with the 2001 indicator). The share of the informal market in the total volume of retail turnover accounted for 75.5%. Distribution of the number of enterprises of retailers in the form of ownership: state ownership of 6.7%, non-state 93.3%, including private 84.8%.

At the insurance market of the republic, 61 insurance companies are represented, of which 9 - with the participation of foreign capital. 20 companies work most consistently, which account for 90% of all insurance services and more than 80% of all paid losses. The share of insurance operations in the total volume of GDP is insignificant, but tends to increase. The Insurance Service of the Republic offers about 40 types of insurance services. The indicator of the activity of the population in insurance operations - in Azerbaijan, every person insures itself or its property by $ 1.8 per year.

In 2002, investments in fixed assets at the expense of all sources of financing amounted to 10.3 trillion. Manat (which is 82% more than in 2001). The main share of investments (98%) was from extrabudgetary funds, the predominant direction is the oil industry and electric power industry. Up to 50% of foreign investment enters the development of mechanical engineering, communications, in the food industry, the services sector.

By 2000, a two-level banking system was created as a result of reforms in Azerbaijan, adopted in international practice. The 1st level is represented by the National Bank of Azerbaijan (NBA), which performs the classical functions of the country's emission central bank, regulates and supervise banking, determines the monetary and currency policy of the state, keeps free resources and mandatory reserves of other banks, manages centralized credit Resources, leads cash execution of the budget and, if necessary, lends the state.

The authority of the NBA includes guaranteed placement by the state authorized Treasury obligations. The NBA is independent of the Government by the Financial Institute, and the Parliament is practically deprived of the opportunity to seriously affect the NBA policy. On start July 1999 NBA gold reserves amounted to $ 707 million, which exceeded the amount of money supply in circulation, 3.2 times. However, reserves consist by 50-55% of the IMF stabilization loans, which, by agreement with it, are not subject to use in everyday activities and can only be involved in an emergency. The 2nd level of the banking system of Azerbaijan consists of 73 banks (1999), which directly carry out the credit-estimated and cash services of individuals and legal entities. In the first years of the transition period negative influence Free lending policy was provided to the financial system. In 1996, the NBA restored control over the growth of money supply and introduced more stringent banking rules. There are several foreign and mixed banks in Azerbaijan, the total number of credit institutions in Azerbaijan (2002) 93. The NBA refinancing rate is 7%.

State budget (January-September 2002, billion manat): incomes 3144.3; Expenses 3141.4. Azerbaijan's foreign debt over $ 700 million. 86% of budget revenues are formed at the expense of tax revenues. The ratio of total state budget expenditures to GDP 15.6%. Budget expenditures on the social sphere and economy 27.3 and 14.2% (2002).

Monetary incomes of the population (trillion manat): 15.1, money costs 12.5 (January-September 2002). Minimum size wages 27.5 thousand manat, average monthly nominal wage 315.2 thousand manat, or $ 64.8 (2002). Minimum retirement pension 70 thousand manat (2002), the average size Pensions of 73.7 thousand manat (2001). The minimum size of scholarships in universities 16.5 thousand manat (2002). Deposits of the population in savings banks (including in commercial) 744.1 billion manat (2002).

Foreign trade (2002, million USD): Export 1778, Import 1496.5. Exports to CIS countries 10.1% of the total export volume, 1/2 exports to these countries - oil refining products, cotton fiber, machinery and equipment, vehicles. 93% of exports to other countries - raw oil and products of its processing. Imports from the CIS countries - 30.8% of the total import volume. Azerbaijan imports from these countries predominantly natural gas, mineral and chemical fertilizers, food products, timber, black and non-ferrous metals, cars. The main articles of import of A. from other countries of the world - machinery, equipment and vehicles.

Azerbaijan science and culture

There are more than 50 higher in Azerbaijan educational institutionsin which approximately 100 thousand students are trained. The largest universities of the countries: Azerbaijani state University them. Raszade, Institute of Oil and Chemistry, Azerbaijan Technical University, Azerbaijan Pedagogical Institute of Russian Language and Literature. M.V. Akhundov, Azerbaijan State Institute of Foreign Languages, Azerbaijan Medical University. Narimanova, Conservatory. W. Gadzhibekova, etc. In recent years, several private and international universities have appeared. Among the latter, the Western University is allocated (founded in 1991). In the Caucasus University, training is conducted in Turkish. Most universities are located in Baku.

Maintenance scientific research The institutes of the Academy of Sciences of Azerbaijan, established in 1945 (at the Institute of Philosophy and Law, the Institute of History, Language and Literature. Nizami, Institute of Economics, etc.). The largest library A. - State Library. M. Akhundova, the largest repository of documents - the National Archive.

A distinctive feature of Azerbaijani literature is the oral poetry of Ashugov (folk singers-poets), the traditions of which are preserved so far. Ancient EPOSs (for example, Kitabi Sada Corkud, 11th century), as well as poetry of a later period (Ganjevi Nizami, OK.1141-1209; Muhammad Fizuli, 1494-1556) are part of the literary heritage of the Anatolian Turks. Written Azerbaijani literature arose after the final inclusion of the country in Russia at the beginning of the 19th century. Her founder of the Mirza Fatali Akhundov (1812-78) is the attorney of the Azerbaijani drama, which has been further developed in the works of Najaf-Bek Vesirov (1854-1926) and Abdurragim Akhverdov (1870-1933). In the beginning. 20 V. Created Jalil Mamekuld (1866-1932), Dramaturgorg Husein Javid (1884-1941), Poet Mohammed Hadi (1879-1920).

Such Azerbaijani directors are known as AM.Shimarzade, A.I. Bek-Nazarov, T.Mtagizade, A.M. Ibrahimov. The strength of Azerbaijani cinematography is documentary.

The theater appeared in Azerbaijan only in Ser. 19th century With the arrival of Soviet power theaters were nationalized. In 1920, Azerbaijani Drama Theater opened in Baku, and in 1924, the Opera and Ballet Theater.

In a rich architectural heritage of Azerbaijan, a strong imprint left the Islamic period. The Islamic architectural monument includes the symbol of Baku - a unique maiden tower, which has the form of the form of oval (12th century). In classic Azerbaijani applied art Persian and Islamic styles and techniques, which were reflected, in particular, in miniatures of the famous Tabris school. The first Azerbaijani newspaper "Ekinchi" ("PAKAR") in 1875 began to produce Gasanbek Vardabi (1837-1907). About 400 newspapers were registered in modern Azerbaijan, but less than 50 goes regularly. The first broadcasts took place in Baku in 1926. Television began broadcasting in 1956.