Could the Caucasus Become Another Syria? President's Interview with CNBC

The President of the Republic of Armenia, Armen Sarkissian, gave an interview to CNBC.

Question: Nagorno-Karabakh is an area with a population of about 100,000. We have witnessed that as a result of the latest clashes, hundreds have been killed. What is the endgame? Should this perhaps be subject to international arbitration? Do you see a possibility for all sides to gather at one table? The world is currently occupied with other issues: the impact of the coronavirus on the global economy, the U.S. presidential elections, U.S.-China relations. Unfortunately, there is still no adequate and necessary international attention to this issue. What do you think needs to happen to prevent this from escalating into a larger conflict?

President Sarkissian: The international community must understand that if they do not intervene now, the Caucasus will become another major problem for them. Can you imagine the Caucasus becoming another Syria?

Question: Does this mean there will be significant issues in the energy sector related to gas pipelines?

President Sarkissian: No, no. Do not consider this issue in only one dimension. The world is not just defined by energy; it is much more complex. There are national interests, stability, trade, logistics, and many other issues involved. We cannot simplify relations between countries based solely on energy. Although about ten years ago I was the chair of the Energy Group of the Euro-Atlantic Security Initiative and truly understand the importance of energy, we cannot reduce the complexity of the issue that much. Imagine the Caucasus becoming another Syria.

Question: Is this going to happen?

President Sarkissian: I hope not, as it would be a great tragedy for everyone across the globe. You mentioned that 150,000 people live in Karabakh, but you did not mention that they are Armenians, and it does not matter whether there are 150,000 or 250,000. Nagorno-Karabakh or Artsakh has been part of historical Armenia for thousands of years. It has been continuously inhabited by Armenians. It is a magnificent mountainous country with a brave and proud people—Armenians. Even during the Soviet era, 90 percent of the population was Armenian. Armenians associate the entire issue related to Nagorno-Karabakh with their faith and history. They see this as another attempt at genocide perpetuated by Turkey with Azerbaijan's assistance. This is unacceptable for Armenians. The fight will continue, and Armenians will prove that this problem cannot be solved by force. Whether you like it or not, we have to return to the negotiating table.

If you examine the activities of Turkey's current government, it seems they have problems around them at 360 degrees—in the Mediterranean, Greece, Libya, Iraq. They are creating issues everywhere. They claim that Armenia is a danger to the international energy pipeline, which is complete nonsense. That pipeline has existed for over 20 years. If we haven’t done anything in 20 years, why would we want to do something now? What is the purpose?