Armenia only strategic ally for Russia in South Caucasus

PanARMENIAN.Net - A significant breakthrough occurred in the Russian-Armenian relations during past eight years, said Nikolay Ryzhkov, member of the RF Federation Council, co-chair of the Russian-Armenian commission for interparliamentary cooperation.



"Frequent presidential visits as well as conduction of the Year of Russia in Armenia and the Year of Armenia in Russia helped the relationship, he said.



"Russia and Armenia enjoy good political relations. Undoubtedly, the atmosphere is created by our leaders. There are possibilities to fortify our military base in Gyumri, to develop economic and humanitarian contacts," Mr Ryzhkov said.



"At the moment we are all awaiting the February 19 presidential election. The shift of power in our countries will take place almost simultaneously and I am hopeful that the policy of past eight years formed owing to activities of Presidents Kocharian and Putin will undergo no changes," he went on.



"When I was Prime Minister I treated all of three South Caucasian republics equally. Now, the situation is different. Armenia is Russia's only strategic ally in the South Caucasus. I am confident that the RF leadership will not allow losing such a partner," Mr Ryzhkov said in an interview with RIA Novosti.