Diversification is key. For many of the proposed pipeline routes, Azerbaijan would have to depend on either Russia or Iran, potential competitors who have their own oil to sell. Using the Novorossiysk route, for example, would increase Russia's influence in the region. Directing the oil through Iran would be frowned upon by nations such as the U.S., which still views Iran as a terrorist state. A Baku-Jeyhan route would mean that Azerbaijan would not have to rely on either of these two countries.
Turkey is an independent outlet, and Azerbaijan's ally.
It also has the potential to be one of Azerbaijan's biggest customers. The country consumes approximately 30 million tons of oil each year, providing a strong demand for Azerbaijan's oil. Map showing the various pipeline route options from Azerbaijan and Central Asia. Using either the Supsa or the Novorossiysk pipeline would mean transporting oil across the Black Sea. One problem with this process is that the sea is already very polluted.