RUSSIA RELIES ON SUBTLE DIPLOMACY IN ARMENIA-TURKEY ISSUE

PanARMENIAN.Net
11.05.2009 16:22 GMT+04:00

/PanARMENIAN.Net/ Russia relies on subtle diplomacy and is actually
interested in success of Armenian-Turkish talks, according to an
Armenian professor.

"Moscow is attempting to cause a split between Azerbaijan and Turkey
and is approaching its goal gradually," professor Ruben Safrastyan,
director of NAS RA Institute of Oriental Studies, told a news
conference today.

"Russia has two objectives: to alienate Ankara from Washington and
to divide Turkey and Azerbaijan on the Karabakh issue," he said.

Commenting on results of social surveys which revealed concerns over
possible opening of the Armenian-Turkish border, prof. Safrastyan said,
"Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan rules the situation. His statements
are meant to raise his party’s rating."

According to a poll conducted by Genar research organization, 67,6
% of respondents in 17 major Turkish cities opposed opening of the
Armenian-Turkish border and establishment of diplomatic relations
with Armenia. 32,4 % approved the idea.