No Significant Support from the West for Anti-Azerbaijani Actions: Khanumyan

Russia does not have clear plans regarding Artsakh. It is waiting for normal proposals from Yerevan and Stepanakert. This was noted by Hayk Khanumyan, the former Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructures of Artsakh, in his Facebook post.

“Azerbaijan and Turkey are valuable partners for Russia, and it will not take hostile steps against them. Azerbaijan is more important to the overwhelming majority of countries in the world than Armenia. Even a country like France has a trade volume with Azerbaijan that is ten times greater than with Armenia. Hence, Armenia will not receive any significant support from the West in terms of actions against Azerbaijan. Iran plays an important role in the region; however, the perceptions about it in our society are exaggerated. There is consensus among the Azerbaijani elite not only on the destruction of Artsakh but also of Armenia. Turkey supports these ambitions of Azerbaijan. Therefore, the preservation of Artsakh and the improvement of the security situation is primarily an issue of survival for all of Armenia.

What to do? Strengthen all types of connections with Russia more actively. Increase trade volume, particularly focusing on cooperation with Russian regions, joint ventures, and cultural diplomacy. Restrain anti-Russian sentiments in Armenia. Activate economic ties with the West, aiming to create a chemical industry in Armenia, particularly in the field of fine chemicals. There are favorable conditions for this in Armenia. Multiplying our trade with the EU, particular member states, and the USA should be our main goal. Additionally, NATO countries' military education programs should be enhanced.

Start serious military cooperation with Iran, focusing on both arms purchases, training personnel, and joint exercises. Strengthen diplomatic efforts to overcome the obstacles posed by the West. Implement military education and training programs across the country, merging civil defense with the military,” Khanumyan wrote.