December 28, 2009 - 15:16 AMT
Status quo acceptable for all but for Azerbaijan
A breakthrough is expected in Armenian-Turkish dialogue, according to Alexander Rar, director of Russia and CIS Programs for the Foreign Policy Council of Germany.

"The ongoing behind-the-scenes negotiations focus on construction of new pipelines, European energy security, with Turkey's regional role increasing. The South Caucasus is facing geopolitical reshuffle. Opening the border with Armenia, Turkey will provide the EU with an outlet to the Caucasus. It's important to drive the region out of the current isolation," he said. "Non-use of force is the most important factor. The Eastern Partnership will be put into practice in South Caucasus. With many in Europe supporting Azerbaijan's territorial integrity, Armenia will be urged to return the lands surrounding Karabakh. However, Azerbaijan fears that the issue will be removed from the agenda."

"Being aware that the United States and European Union target resolution of the Karabakh conflict to prepare the region for cooperation with the EU, Azerbaijan is displaying impatience. It's warlike language is an attempt to press on the international community. As a matter of fact the status quo is acceptable for all but for Azerbaijan," Rar said, Dipkurier NG reported.