Markedonov: OSCE MG demonstrates cautious optimismFebruary 1, 2008 - 13:57 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The OSCE Minsk Group Co-chairs as well as leading European diplomats do not foretell progress in reconciliation between two South Caucasian states. However, cautious optimism can be observed, said Sergei Markedonov, head of the international relations department of the institute of political and military analysis. "U.S. mediator Matt Bryza hints on a breakthrough. Meanwhile, even professional optimists realize that 2008 is the year of elections and it will make patriotism the most popular topic. That is why, even Mr Bryza - remarkable for his optimism - refrains from foretelling progress in 2008," he said. According to Markedonov, Yerevan's strategic aim is to gain time. "The international community should resign itself to the fact that Azerbaijan has lost the disputable territory. The situation in Azerbaijan is quite different. It has lost control not only over Nagorno Karabakh but also over the surrounding territories. The struggle for Karabakh has become a foundation for the post-soviet Azeri state system and the principal component of the Azeri present-day mentality. This is the explanation for Baku's frequent statements on revanche," he said, Politcom reports. 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 | Pashinyan travels to Iran to pay tribute to Raisi, others Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has left for the Islamic Republic of Iran on a working visit. Your home is in Armenia – Ameriabank offers mortgage loans for the Diaspora To buy real estate, Diasporans can apply to Ameriabank online to buy, renovate or build a home anywhere in Armenia. Armenia-Qatar ties discussed in Doha The Secretary of Armenia’s Security Council met with the Deputy Secretary General of the National Security Council of Qatar. ARARAT special evening dedicated to Aznavour's 100th Anniv. On May 20 ARARAT legendary Armenian brandy, celebrated the centennial of Maestro Charles Aznavour with a special event. |