Armenia needs to have strong relations with Russia, US and all its
neighbors: Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and
European Affairs
Arminfo
2007-04-27 22:56:00
Armenia needs to have strong relations with Russia, with the United
States and with all its neighbors, Deputy Assistant Secretary of
State for European and Eurasian Affairs David Kramer said in a brief
interview with ArmInfo’s correspondent in New York when asked to
comment on the criticism of the complementary policy of the Armenian
authorities by the Armenian opposition.
Armenia has a very long and proud tradition in history and we
respect it.
And we look forward to deepening our relations with Armenia as we have
been trying to do since Armenia’s independence. But given Armenia its
geographical position, it is in common sense to have good relations
with Russia and with the countries in the region. That’s all in
common sense. The good relations with us should not be in conflict
with relations with Russia and vice versa: the good relations with
Russia should not contradict to us.
Speaking of Russia’s energy policy in the South Caucasus, Kramer said
that Armenia has been affected by higher prices Russia gives the power
energy to Georgia. And it is difficult. We understand it has become
difficult and we have do some concerns about the use of energy for
economic purposes by Russia. We want Russia to be a reliable energy
supplier to your country and to all the countries in the region. We
also do not support the subsidies from Russia.
That not a help for anyone. It reduces the energy efficiency. We are
concerned about not going from subsidies prices that may risk the
stabilization in the region.
Asked about the diversification of the energy supplier and about the
intention of Russia to also become the owner, Kramer said that is a
complicated issue. Diversification is important. One just needs to
be careful where you look.
Asked about his vision of the Karabakh conflict and the possible
solution, he said: "I know that my colleague Mathew Bryza is working
very hard as the other members of the Minsk Group and we continue to
try to accomplish your purpose", he concluded.