Reports Indicate Armenian and Turkish Diplomats Met in Late April: Areshyev

Reports suggest that Armenian and Turkish diplomats met in Tbilisi in late April. Russian political scientist Andrey Areshyev announced this in an interview with Newsam.

“What were they discussing there? What communication projects? It is unclear. Various hypotheses can be proposed, including that the Armenian authorities have somehow agreed to the extraterritorial activation of the corridor through Meghri, possibly in exchange for gas trade with Azerbaijan, as announced by Aliyev,” the expert emphasized.

He noted that the Armenian authorities believe that fulfilling Azerbaijan's demands will ensure long-term peace and stability. “The opposition, which is not acting systematically, is concerned that fulfilling Azerbaijan’s demands in Tavush will lead to new, tougher demands. However, the process of delimiting the borders will continue, one way or another,” Areshyev stated.

He emphasized that after Tavush, the focus will shift to Yerevan, connecting Tigranashen with Syunik and Iran. The political scientist did not rule out that there might be protests regarding this issue, but different social groups can do little against a systematic and joint decision made by Baku and Yerevan. “There is no doubt that such a solution exists,” the expert underscored.

According to him, international players, including the UN, directly support this decision. Russia and Iran have acknowledged it and are unable to influence this decision.

“It is important that the Armenian government is looking two steps ahead in terms of ensuring communication links with Georgia and, consequently, with Russia and Iran. However, it is still unclear how this issue will be resolved,” the political scientist emphasized.

Areshyev expressed confidence that Iran's response would lead to diplomatic activity and possible negotiations with Baku. Regarding decisive actions, according to Areshyev, Iran has many other issues at hand. Stability in the South Caucasus region is crucial for Tehran.

It is noteworthy that the Armenian authorities have repeatedly advocated for the unblocking of communications in the region. Moreover, Yerevan has emphasized that all communications should be under the jurisdiction of the countries through which they pass.