Ara Papyan predicts aggravation of Russian-Turkish tensions

YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS: Armenia is not exempted from the context of Russian-Turkish tensions in Syrian context. The developments either are in favor of Armenia or against, the head of “Modus Vivendi” center Ara Papyan assesses. Speaking of the possible repeal of Moscow treaty of 1921 by Russia, Papyan noted that it creates a favorable geopolitical situation for Armenia and it should be used.

He thinks that the tensions between Russia and Turkey will go deeper, but won’t turn into a classical war. “Armepress” reports that the political analyst considers logical all the calls for Armenia to keep neutrality. Nevertheless, he thinks that is highly improbable as there is a Russian military base in Armenia and Armenia has a problem with the Diaspora in the context of Syrian conflict. “Besides, Turkey and the rest of the world don’t see Armenia as impartial, rather see it as a Russian ally, though often they overestimate that role,” Ara Papyan said at a press conference. He also doesn’t agree with the idea that speaking of the repeal of Moscow and Kars treaties Armenia might create security problems as if Turkey wouldn’t attack Armenia without those calls if it had the intention.

“We need to use the current window of opportunity, present our interests, show to the Russian ruling and intellectual circles the lawlessness of Moscow and Kars treaties and increase our defense capabilities,” Papyan underscored.

Papyan also spoke of the possibility of opening Iran-Armenia railway through Nakhijevan as one of the chances for Armenia to avoid regional isolation. He thinks that building a new railway through Syunik is unrealistic because of technical and financial reasons. Papyan thinks that Armenia should facilitate the opening of Nakhijevan railway before the built up of the Resht-Astara part of Iran-Azerbaijan railway, which is financed by “South Caucasus railway company” (daughter company of Russia railways).

“Armenia could suggest opening this railway as a step towards regional peace and security. If Azerbaijan refuses, Armenia should declare that it is its only chance to break the regional isolation and take control over Nakhijevan. It may be a wrong move, but it’s as inevitable as a surgery in case of grave disease; the alternative would be the slow death of the patient,” Papyan concludes.