Russia’s involvement in regional projects welcoming: political analyst

Armenia and Russia are EAEU member states while Iran is trying to form free trade zone with the establishment, chairman of International Center for Human Development, political analyst Tevan Poghosyan told Aysor.am. The expert said it may be done only through Armenia which is a quite good circumstance.

“Everyone understands that it is possible not only form east-west cooperation fields in the region but also north-south. We understand that there is a cooperation format which we are always being point to. I am speaking about Azerbaijan-Georgia-Turkey cooperation while now north-south cooperation format is being established which is a very good fact. If there is a cooperation among Iran, Armenia, Georgia and Russia, there will be no problems,” the expert said.

Poghosyan said the more countries be involved in the regional cooperation the better.

“If the interests of all coincide, understanding is being formed that this cooperation will be the motor and not the competition and attempts to harm one another,” he said, adding that it will result in the growth of Armenia’s role and the country will present a general value.

Speaking about Russia’s role in the region, the political analyst said that of course the country has regional interests and wants to be involved in the regional projects.

“It is a hailing circumstance. If Russia’s involvement is positive, it is very encouraging. Armenia and Russia are allies,” he said, adding that the ally should be treated in a corresponding way.

As to whether Yerevan-Moscow cooperation may promote the progress of part of Yerevan-Tehran agenda, he said they are of different engagement but if interests are found it will be beneficial for all.

“Iran is our neighbor. We are cooperating with that country. Armenia is the only country in the region which opens way for Iran to EAEU,” he said, adding that Iran welcomes the fact. Poghosyan said Armenia may have a very positive role in this cooperation.