============================== AZERBAIJAN ============================== Azerbaijan, a republic of the former USSR, declared itself independent in 1991. It is situated on the southwest coast of the Caspian Sea and shares borders with Iran, Armenia, Georgia and the Russian Federation. The country is semi-arid, and 70% of the land is irrigated for the production of cotton, wheat, maize, potatoes, tobacco, tea and citrus fruits. It has rich mineral deposits, the most important being oil, which is found in the Baku area. Area (Sq. Km.): 87,000 Population: 6,506,000 Capital: Baku Language: Azeri Turkish Russian Religion: Muslim Government Type: Republic Currency: Rouble Embassy: Represented by CIS. «»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«» Foreign Office Advice: Despite isolated terrorist incidents the situation in Baku is stable, and the city can be visited without difficulty, though there is a curfew between 0001 and 0500. Passports, or after entry visa receipts should be carried at all times. Although a ceasefire in the conflict over the Western region of Nagorno Karabakh has been in place since May 1994, travel to this region should be strictly avoided. Cancellation, long delays and overloading of passengers on internal flights in some countries of the former Soviet Union are frequent, particularly in the Transcaucasus. It is not known if maintenance procedures are always properly observed. Travellers are advised to fly directly on international flights where possible. On arrival all valuables should be declared. Incidents of mugging, theft and pickpocketing in all cities are increasing. Visitors should be vigilant and are advised to dress down. It is safer to use officially marked taxis which should NOT be shared with strangers. When travelling by train, valuables should be left in the compartment. Do not leave the compartment unattended. Ensure the door is quite secure from the inside. For more information ring: Foreign Office Travel Unit 0171-270-4129