APA, Azerbaijan
Sept 19 2009

London hosts a conference entitled Security in the Caucasus: Enhancing
Co-operation with Security Architectures

[ 19 Sep 2009 12:14 ]

London-APA. On 17 September, London became the hub of attention when
it hosted an unique high-level conference entitled Security in the
Caucasus: Enhancing Co-operation with Security Architectures.

This signalled the forging of a progressive partnership between The
European Azerbaijan Society (TEAS) and Whitehall-based RUSI, the
foremost international military science institute.

TEAS said in a statement that the combined power of these two bodies
is destined to create a new space for dialogue in the Caucasus region.

Attracting over 60 delegates, including ministers, Lords, MPs,
Ambassadors and observers, the event was particularly momentous as all
key regional stakeholders were present, including those from
Azerbaijan, Armenia, Russia, Ukraine and Georgia. There were also
representatives from Sweden, Finland, Norway, the EU and the USA, in
addition to experts from the private sector.

Discussions covered all elements of the security environment, focusing
on Nagorno-Karabakh and other ongoing conflicts. Delegates also
highlighted aspects of energy and energy security. It was refreshing
to see all sides present, and their willingness to make open and
robust representations.

The event began with an evening reception on 16 September at RUSI,
hosted by the Azerbaijan Embassy, being attended by leading UK
government officials and H.E. Ambassador Fakhraddin Gurbanov of
Azerbaijan. This enchanting evening gave all sides an opportunity to
meet in a convivial atmosphere.

TEAS and RUSI truly captured the urgency and spirit of all factions
who are striving towards reconciliation. Discussion areas included the
Caucasus security environment, European security interests, Regional
dynamics and Energy security, particularly concentrating on the
Nabucco pipeline project. The TEAS Chairman also delivered a speech
outlining his vision and the role of the TEAS-RUSI partnership.

The meeting came at a particularly important juncture for
Azerbaijan. The Nagorno-Karabakh problem is currently tabled for
discussion at the 64th UN General Assembly and is receiving greater
attention since the inauguration of the Obama Administration.

It is undeniable that the event provided all representatives with a
great deal of information, enhancing awareness and indicating the
viability of achieving resolution in the region. This event, hosted by
TEAS and RUSI, represented a new space that will facilitate a positive
path.