Interview with Samuel Lussac, a PhD candidate at the Institute of Political Studies in Bordeaux, studying relations in the South Caucasus.
Q: How do you assess Azerbaijan’s role in the South Caucasus?
A: I think Azerbaijan’s role is growing more decisive in the region. Today Azerbaijan is already the first investor in neighbouring Georgia and developing economic ties with its neighbour Turkey. I think Azerbaijan has the right to be considered the regional leader.
Q: The main problem of the region is the unsolved Karabakh conflict. Do you think it will be settled soon?
A: Unfortunately, I do not see sufficient grounds for optimism. The OSCE Minsk Group has not yet become effective in its work; all the mediators involved in the resolution remain unsuccessful.
Q: What do you think is the way out of the situation?
A: I support the deeper involvement of the European Union in the resolution since I think the EU may play a role there. Unfortunately, this is not happening.
Q: The EU is represented by France in the Minsk Group. Do you think other EU states should also be mediators?
A: Being French, I also believe in the Europeanization of the Minsk Group to make it more effective. Bernard Fassier has long been working as the co-chair of the OSCE Minsk Group from France. I think that we need rotation for a more active European presence in the process.
Q: What can you say about the chances of the Karabakh separatists for independence? Do you see any parallels with Kosovo, for example?
A: I do not believe it. Even Armenia would not benefit from the recognition of the independence of Nagorno-Karabakh.
Lala B.
News.Az
| < Prev | Next > |
|---|
