Arabists point out tangible benefits Armenia can derive from regional developments

YEREVAN, DECEMBER 28, ARMENPRESS. Armenia can have tangible benefits from the regional developments, in case it conducts a flexible policy. Arabist Armen Petrosyan expressed such an opinion during the press-conference at “Armenpress” news agency. He mainly refers to the tension in Russia-Turkey relations, escalation in Iran-Turkey relations.

“For instance, creation of air defense system with Russia is of great importance. Activities should be carried out with Russia on acquiring armament not only to strengthen the border with Turkey. Apart from that, Russia and Iran are active players in Syria. Diplomatic opportunities are created for Armenia to raise the issues connected with the security of our community. Armenia’s diplomacy has a lot to do in that regard,” Petrosyan said.

According to Arabist Sargis Grigoryan, Armenia must also reveal the Azerbaijani factor.

“It is necessary to show to the international community that our neighboring countries, particularly Azerbaijan, are present in the Syrian processes. Several hundreds of Azerbaijani fight in the ranks of the Islamic State and other groups. This shows that Azerbaijan has not stood aside from extremist, radical tendencies. The latter must be voiced and it must be stressed that the situation in the Caucasus may become explosive. Sooner or later they return, and Azerbaijan’s becoming one of the extremist centers is not ruled out,” Sargis Grigoryan said.

Regarding Russia’s accusations over Turkey’s actions and its support provided to the terrorists, Arabist Armen Petrosyan noted that the international community, especially the West, was well aware of Turkey’s actions before the evidence introduced by Russia.

“It’s not like the West became aware of it after Russia’s evidence. It would have been impossible not to be aware of Turkey’s actions. It was not being spoken about, because their objective was to simply engage Russia into conflict. Russia becomes more vulnerable by that, especially in terms of economy,” Armen Petrosyan added.