RUSSIA INTERESTED IN STABLE ARMENIA – KARASIN

Interfax News Agency
March 20 2008
Russia

Dialogue is the only way to resolve Armenia’s political problems,
Russian State Secretary and Deputy Foreign Minister Grigory Karasin
told the media in Yerevan.

"Russia cares about the internal political situation in a friendly
country. We think that dialogue and compliance with laws are the only
ways to resolve political problems," he said.

"Riots and chaos are dangerous for any state. I think Armenian
citizens understood from the March 1-2 events how dangerous such a
course could be, as it would not resolve any problems but lead the
country into a period of instability and uncertainty," Karasin said.

"I have a strong impression that President Robert Kocharian and
Prime Minister Serzh Sargsyan understand that as well. They have
certain plans for the future. Their plans imply legal activities of
the constructive opposition and dialogue. I hope this tendency will
prevail," he said.

"Armenian society will once again be stable and predictable. Russia
is interested in that and is ready to promote the achievement of
this goal."

While in Yerevan, Karasin met with Armenian officials to discuss
the internal political situation, the Karabakh settlement and some
other issues.