By Gulnara Ismailova (9/22/2004 issue of the CACI Analyst)

Diplomatic relations between Germany and Azerbaijan were in February 1992, and a Germany Embassy in Baku soon opened. Unlike most European countries, Germany actively cooperates with Azerbaijan at the governmental level and the two countries have developed good relations. Through the German Technical Cooperation (GTZ), Germany supports some enterprises and state structures in Azerbaijan.

By Marat Yermukanov (9/22/2004 issue of the CACI Analyst)

Kazakhstan’s ability to react promptly to everything which happens in Russia surprises observers and irritates homegrown nationalists. Speaking at the joint session of Parliament immediately after two simultaneous plane crashes in Russia, President Nursultan Nazarbayev on September 1 called on the power-wielding bodies and security services to heighten security measures. The day, by irony, coincided with the hostage taking in the small Russian town of Beslan, apparently perpetrated by Chechen and other terrorists.

By Chemen Durdiyeva (9/8/2004 issue of the CACI Analyst)

Saparmyrat Ataevich Niyazov was officially elected as the first President of Turkmenistan in June 21, 1992 and has been in office ever since. At the session of Khalk Maslahaty (People’s Council), the highest body of popular representation, Niyazov was reelected as life-term President in 1999, and subsequent constitutional amendments were adopted to eternalize his presidential term. The People’s Council, under the chairmanship of Mr.