THE SOUTH CAUCASUS AND ITS GEOGRAPHICAL, ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL IMPORTANCE

Abstract

The Caucasus region is historically an important geographical space where East and West, North and South intersect. This territory, in addition to constituting one of the most complex geopolitical and ethnic mosaics in the world, is also distinguished by its rich natural resources, favorable climatic conditions and transit routes. The article analyzes the fact that the Caucasus has been in the sphere of interest of various empires since ancient times, and the impact of political changes taking place here on the geopolitical status of the region. From a historical-geographical point of view, not only the physical-geographical features of the Caucasus are taken into account, but also socio-cultural and political-strategic factors. The article also emphasizes the role of the region in energy resources, transport communications and international relations in modern times. As a result of the research, it is concluded that the strategic importance of the Caucasus has not decreased over time, but, on the contrary, has increased further against the background of the interests of global and regional powers