Ankara trying to enhance its reputationFebruary 21, 2009 - 14:53 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - There are several geopolitical factors which will affect the Armenian-Turkish relations, according to an Armenian professor."The U.S. key dimension is Afghanistan, which sidelined Iran and Iraq," director of the Institute of Oriental Studies at the RA National Academy of Sciences, professor Ruben Safrastyan told a news conference today. "For the purpose, Washington will need Ankara's support. Keep in mind that CIS chief arrived in Turkey immediately after Obama's phone talks with President Gul and Prime Minister Erdogan," he said. "Leon Panetta was reported to discuss a possibility of deploying of a U.S. base in Turkey." This scenario will inevitably affect the Armenian-Turkish relations, according to prof. Safrastyan. "Proceeding from national interests, Barack Obama will not use the term 'genocide' in his annual April 24 statement," he said. He also emphasized that that after the Russian-Georgian clashes, Europe will work to launch Nabucco project, which will pump Azeri gas to European states through Turkey. "During his recent visit to Brussels, Erdogan did not rule out that Turkey will renounce its EU bid. This way, Ankara is trying to enhance its reputation," prof. Safrastyan said. Top stories 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". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Scholz hopes Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty will be signed this year German Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes that a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan will be signed this year. Ucom equips four bus stops in Ijevan with free Wi-Fi Ucom now provides free Wi-Fi coverage in smart bus stops in four communities of Ijevan. Armenia, Russia discuss life extension of Metsamor nuclear plant Issues regarding the extension of life of the 2nd power unit of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant were discussed in Yerevan. Armenians stage more campaigns against territorial concessions to Azerbaijan Protesters blocked more roads across Armenia on Friday, April 26 in continuing attempts to scuttle territorial concessions to Azerbaijan. |