When does Russia respect Armenia?
Armenia's military importance for Russia is increasing, Director of the Regional Studies Center (RSC) Richard Giragosian told a news conference on April 6.
He came to the conclusion after the recent visit of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to Armenia. The political scientist says that Russia is concerned about Armenia's deepening ties with the West, with NATO and the US. He is confident that Moscow will pay special attention to Armenia-US military training to be held in Armenia later in April.
"The more active relations Armenia has with the West, the more expectations it can have. Russia is very much like Turkey: it respects Armenia only when it is strong," said Mr Giragosian.
He says at the head of Vladimir Putin Russia will try to pressurize Armenia through Karabakh peace talks.
"However, Putin will not succeed in his endeavours since Russia's new president has strained relations with Armenian authorities."
The political scientist notes that Moscow is trying to better relations with Baku, at the same time realizing that its most reliable partner is Yerevan.
It is not accidental that some Russian analysts suggested that Russia build a new radar station in Armenian instead of purchasing the Soviet-era Gabala radar station in Azerbaijan at a high price.
"In this respect, Prime Minister Tigran Sargsyan took correct stand, saying that Armenia is ready to consider any proposal on this issue," he said.
In conclusion, Mr Giragosian said that Armenia could enlarge the existing geopolitical capital provided that it held normal parliamentary elections in May.
