September 2, 2009 - 16:27 AMT
Armenian-Turkish process at risk of delay
"Armenian-Turkish rapprochement is at risk of delay," political scientist, Caucasus Institute Director Alexander Iskandaryan told a press conference in Yerevan. "Developments in Armenian-Turkish relations result from negotiation process which have been going on for a long time. Obviously, Turkey is facing serious pressures by United States, Europe and Russia in terms of proceeding with the process. Besides, Turkish government is also facing pressures inside its country. Forces there are either for or against the process," Armenian expert said.

Touching upon possible risks, Iskandaryan stressed that there are threats for delaying process. "Protocols are now certain to be signed by Armenian and Turkish officials, but documents are promulgated after being ratified by countries' parliaments. Considering existing opposition-coalition ratio in Armenia, the document is quite likely to be pushed through in our parliament. With regard to the Turkish parliament, I can only say that the process there may be delayed, as seen by the documents themselves."