CAUCASUS COMMON ECONOMIC ZONE CHALLENGED

Messenger.ge
Messenger Staff Wednesday, July 1

During his Yerevan visit President Saakashvili stated that the
southern Caucasus countries should strengthen their economic ties
and suggested the creation of a common economic zone. Analysts have
positively assessed this idea although mentioning that it is unlikely
to be fulfilled in the near future. Saakashvili also mentioned that
due to the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict this zone could not yet be
fully implemented but said initial steps will be taken by Armenia
and Georgia.

Some analysts think that economic integration between Georgia and
Armenia could face some difficulties because of their different
political orientations. Armenia is almost completely bound to the
Russian economy but Russia considers Georgia its number one enemy
and through its aggression has cut all economic ties between the
two countries.

It is interesting to note that Saakashvili initiated the creation of
a Caucasus market soon after the Rose Revolution during his visit to
Baku. Georgia was then clearly the leader among the three countries as
it had the ability to act as a mediator between Armenia and Azerbaijan.