Interview with Thomas Goltz of the Department of Political Science, Montana State University.
Q: According to the Washington Post, Senate's failure to confirm Ambassador Bryza "offers a vivid example of how the larger US national interest can fall victim to special-interest jockeying and political accommodation". And how would you estimate the situation?
A: I label the entire Bryza scandal as 'official corruption' in the halls of power in the US congress, and am utterly disgusted and ashamed of the entire affair. Not only do I have the greatest respect for Amb Matthew Bryza, but count him as a personal friend.
Q: What kind of influence may it cause on the US-Azerbaijan relations?
A: At this point I am not sure--but NOT having a US ambassador in Baku is a symbolic slap in the face. That said, Baku is aware of the game being played, and hopefully will be understanding.
Q: How would you comment an opinion that disappointment over the US regional policy driven by Armenian ethnic interests may diminish Azerbaijan's pro-Western drive and increase Iran's influence in this sensitive region?
A: I answered that in question #2.
Q: May the absence of US Ambassador in Azerbaijan last for years as it was once? And what do you thing about American official's words that it is "not political but a technical issue"?
A: I certainly hope that an ambassador is appointed as quickly as possible, but given past experience cannot comment on when the absence of one will happen. As for the second question, I do not know which American official allegedly said what you quoted and so I will not comment.
Q: How real is some progress in the Karabakh settlement in near future when two of co-chair states (the US and France) are dependent from Armenian lobby, and Russia is strategic military ally of Armenia?
A: I think you have answered the question with your question.
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