July 8, 2009 - 19:08 AMT
Moscow agreements between Obama and Medvedev diminish the geopolitical role of Caucasus
"The meeting between Russia and US presidents focused on the following issues: allocation of ballistic missile defense (BMD) system in Europe, continuation of negotiations for strategic arms agreement and use of Russian communications for cargo delivery to Afghanistan," Armenian politologist Igor Muradyan told a news conference.

Dwelling on the first aspect, Muradyan noted that the policy of previous US administration was aimed at strengthening of military and political component, which lead to BMD allocation plan in Europe. The plan has become another leverage of pressure on Russia, along with NATO expansion.

Muradyan believes that Russia- USA agreement on the use of Russian communications for cargo transfer to Afghanistan diminishes the geopolitical role of Caucasus, as our regional communications will not be used to this purpose. According to Muradyan, the positive aspect is that little attention directed at Caucasus means less pressure. He also emphasized that the meaning of Caspian basin oil will decrease, should ail production increase in Iraq.