The future of Armenian-Iranian relations depends on MoscowMay 21, 2009 - 15:17 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The future of Armenian-Iranian relations in transport, energy and trade spheres is linked to Russia's influence on Armenia, said Richard Giragosian, director of the Armenian Center for National and International Studies (ACNIS) at the discussion "Prospects of Armenian-Iranian relations" held in Yerevan."Requirement of the Russian side to reduce the diameter of the Iran-Armenia gas pipeline made that project economically unprofitable. Thus, Armenia continues remaining totally dependent on Russia's gas. Moscow's actions are far from the steps of a strategic partner, as Russia is considered to be", stressed the Armenian expert. Richard Giragosian added, that unfortunately the future of Armenian-Iranian relations depends on Moscow. ACNIS director also stressed, that in respect to developing its relations with Iran, Armenia is geared to U.S and EU. "At the same time, if Yerevan could implement a relevant foreign policy, we would manage to become a bridge between the West and Iran. Anyway, this may become a reality, if Armenia takes the initiative," said Richard Giragosian. Top stories Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev arrived in Moscow on April 22 to hold talks with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". Partner news | Russian Ambassador to Armenia summoned to Moscow for consultations Russian Ambassador to Armenia Sergei Kopyrkin has been summoned to Moscow for consultations. Armenian border troops stationed in Tavush Starting from May 24, the Armenian border troops officially take over the protection of sections of the border in the Tavush region. Welcome to CaseKey 2024. Byblos Bank Armenia firmly stands by future innovators Strategic business cases, invaluable experience, innovative approaches and more than 25 events are in store for the participants of CaseKey 2024. Macron honors Charles Aznavour on 100th anniversary French President Emmanuel Macron has paid tribute to the memory of French-Armenian crooner Charles Aznavour. |