Azerbaycan–Türkiye İlişkilerinde Sosyal ve Kültürel İlişkilerin Rolü
The relations between Azerbaijan and Türkiye are characterized not only by historical, ethnic, linguistic, and cultural proximity but also by extensive social and humanitarian cooperation developed in the modern period. Social and cultural relations form an important complementary dimension of bilateral political and economic cooperation. This article examines the main directions of contemporary social and cultural relations between Azerbaijan and Türkiye, the factors influencing their development, and the mechanisms of socio-cultural rapprochement between the two societies. The study applies historical-comparative, systemic, and source-analysis methods to monographs and scholarly works on bilateral relations. Education, science, literature, youth relations, tourism, media, diaspora activities, and cultural diplomacy are examined as separate areas of interaction. The findings suggest that social and cultural relations are not merely a consequence of interstate cooperation; they also function as a form of social capital that supports the sustainability of bilateral relations. Educational and scientific cooperation, shared cultural heritage, and people-to-people contacts appear to increase mutual recognition between the two societies. The article also discusses opportunities for expanding socio-cultural cooperation through joint scientific projects, digitalization of cultural heritage, and youth-oriented programs.

Keywords
cultural diplomacy, educational cooperation, science, youth, diaspora, social integration