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The author traces several energy policy decisions taken between 2006 and 2013 in Azerbaijan to find out how international actors tried to influence policy-making. The book facilitates understanding of the political mechanisms, threats and opportunities that characterize activities in Azerbaijan’s energy sector illustrating strategic pitfalls and chances. Based on a detailed country analysis and the in depth comparison of four policy cases, the book deduces the political elite’s rationale, and its practical consequences for transnational relations. It is relevant for scholars studying the political economy of rentier states and regimes in the authoritarian realm, as well as for young strategists in organizations that conduct business in countries dominated by tight informal networks.

Dave s soccer team has been nicknamed The Screwballs, much to his dismay. But the name has stuck because, Dave reluctantly admits, they are in fact a pretty hopeless team. Every week they eat the dust of the team down the road known as BloodnGuts . That is until The Screwballs inherit a most unlikely new member of the team! Their new star player turns out to be Dave s older sister Meredith s dog, Fluff! At first the Screwballs are sceptical. Could a dog really save them from eternal humiliation? However, it turns out Meredith has been secretly training Fluff to play soccer like a pro. The secret to Fluff s sporting prowess is some strange little edible treats called sheep nuts . Soon the whole team find these sheep nuts are really helping their playing too! (Is it really the sheep nuts or are they just finally growing in confidence as a team? Read on to find out!)