Tensions in Caucasus not reducing over ongoing propaganda war between Yerevan and Baku

PanARMENIAN.Net - Russia is concerned over West's increasing presence in Georgia and Azerbaijan, since it can later turn over to Armenia, thus embracing the entire South Caucasus, according to a Russian expert.



"Trip to Baku is not Medvedev's only visit to Transcaucasia. He also plans to visit Armenia," Vadim Mukhanov, senior fellow of the Center of Caucasian Studies at Moscow State Institute of International Relations, said when commenting on the outcomes of the Russian President's visit to Azerbaijan.



"The talks focused on possibilities to intensify political and economic cooperation, specifically in energy sector. The Russian government supports Gazprom's talks with local companies on Azeri gas purchase while Azerbaijan is interested in entering the Russian market," he said.



"However, relations between Russia and Azerbaijan are restricted to state interests of both states. It's obvious that Russia will not sacrifice its strategic partnership with Armenia for closer relations with Azerbaijan," he said, adding, "Tensions in Caucasus are not reduced over ongoing propaganda war between Yerevan and Baku, which is pregnant with a new burst of violence," Mukhanov said.



Among other issues discussed by the Russian and Azeri leaders, the expert mentioned illegal migration, IA Regnum reports.