Geo-economical Evaluation of the South Caucasus from the Perspective of Ares Free Zone Tourism Using the SWOT Model

Due to its unique location and importance, Aras Free Zone has several aspects, including the natural environment, population, higher education, added value in various sectors, investments, and customs. Based on these capacities, it serves as the center and beating heart of Azerbaijan. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the geo-economics of the South Caucasus region in terms of tourism using the SWOT model. This descriptive-survey research has an applied nature and is cross-sectional in terms of time. The statistical population consists of experts and specialists in tourism and political geography related to the issues of the Aras Free Zone and the South Caucasus. Fifty individuals were selected in a targeted manner for this study. The SWOT method was used for analysis during the year 1400. Results showed that one of the weaknesses of the study is the strained political relations between Iran and Azerbaijan in the region. On the other hand, the communication role of the South Caucasus region between Iran and various European countries is a significant geo-economic advantage, making it a critical communication and transit bridge between Iran and Europe. The possibility of establishing a communication route between the eastern and western seas presents both a threat factor and an opportunity for its communication role between Iran and various European countries. Keywords: Aras Free Zone, South Caucasus, Geo-economic Situation, SWOT Model.