5.Conclusion
In conclusion, the evolution of the C5+1 platform into the C6+1 format with Azerbaijan's full membership represents a strategic transformation driven by global Rare Earth Elements (REE) rivalry and logistical imperatives, rather than a mere symbolic diplomatic gesture. From the U.S. perspective, this expansion serves as a vital instrument to mitigate China's dominance in the REE supply chain and to establish a secure logistics architecture via the Middle Corridor, effectively bypassing Russia and Iran.
For Azerbaijan, this integration is a pragmatic achievement that validates Baku's multi-vector foreign policy strategy and its elevated geopolitical confidence following the Second Karabakh War. This process elevates Azerbaijan beyond a mere transit route, positioning it as an indispensable "game-changer" in the global equation through its strategic location and the mineral resources of the Karabakh region. Ultimately, the C6+1 mechanism offers a shared strategic framework where the national interests of Washington and Baku converge, redefining the balance of power in the region.