The relief of Azerbaijan’s liberated lands and its economic potential

Abstract

This paper provides a comprehensive scientific analysis of the relief features, geomorphological structure, natural resources, and economic significance of Azerbaijan’s liberated territories. The landscapes of the Karabakh and East Zangezur regions are highly diverse and complex, consisting of mountainous, foothill, and lowland zones that together shape the distribution of soils, water resources, vegetation, and climatic patterns.The study demonstrates that the relief plays a decisive role not only in the formation of natural landscapes but also in agricultural development, hydroenergy production, tourism, and infrastructure planning. The diversity of the terrain determines regional economic activities: mountain areas favor pastoralism and mountain tourism, foothill zones are suitable for horticulture and beekeeping, while lowlands support intensive agriculture and industry.

Furthermore, the research highlights the importance of preventive measures against geomorphological hazards such as erosion, landslides, and floods. Overall, understanding and managing the relief and natural processes scientifically is a key prerequisite for achieving sustainable development and ecological stability in Azerbaijan’s liberated lands