CSTO and GUAM cannot be represented in NATO

PanARMENIAN.Net - "NATO has normal relations with Russia which attends meetings held in an "at 27" format and is entitled to express its standpoint," RA Ambassador to NATO Samvel Mkrtchyan told a news conference in Yerevan. 19 groups from Russia and over 30 military advisors work in NATO structures. "The CSTO and GUAM would like to be represented in the organization, however, the NATO regulations prohibits membership of blocs," Mkrtchyan said. Macedonia, Albania and Croatia are awaiting accession to NATO at present, he added. As to Georgia and Ukraine's aspiration, the Ambassador said it's a long-lasting process. "Georgia should form armed forces and fulfill a number of conditions to speak of NATO membership," he underscored.



As to engagement of NATO troops in military operation in case of U.S. intrusion into Iran, the Armenian diplomat said "the Iranian problem is not on NATO's agenda."