THE DOORS OF NATO OPEN FOR EVERYONE, EVEN RUSSIA

armradio.am
28.10.2008 16:11

The Black Sea Security Program Regional Workshop continued in Yerevan
today.

Russia’s representative at the workshop, Russian army General
Vyacheslav Proshkin said everyone is interested in the development
of the Black Sea region, but there are a number of problems which
hinder its progress and development.

According to NATO’s representative Yaroslav Skonizhka, the
Euro-Atlantic Alliance is very much worries about the situation in
the South Caucasus, and despite the fact that NATO’s role is not very
great here, it’s not going to stay passive and intends to carry out
actions to ensure stability and security in the region. According to
him, NATO has already worked out several programs, the implementation
of which will increase the role of the countries of the region on the
international arena. "We welcome and support the cooperation with
Armenia, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Ukraine and other countries. NATO’s
doors are open for everyone. Of course, our partner countries cannot
immediately join the Alliance; they should pass a certain way. We
are ready to cooperate even with Russia," the NATO representative
assured. In his words, by cooperating with the region, NATO tries
to implement reforms especially in the defense sphere, which will
contribute to the security and strengthening of the countries of
the region.

Great Britain’s representative, General Garry Johnson said the West and
Russia should clarify relations and move along the path of cooperation.

"The West wishes only peace," he said.

Tens of experts, diplomats, experienced politicians from Armenia,
Belgium, Bulgaria, Great Britain, Greece, Georgia, Ukraine, Moldova,
Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia, Turkey, Russia, the United
States, France, as well as international organizations participate
in the workshop. Azerbaijan refused to participate although it was
invited. The workshop will continue through October 30.