Alexander Khloponin: Caucasus not an A-bomb or powder barrelMay 16, 2010 - 15:37 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Alexander Khloponin, Russian deputy prime minister and presidential envoy to North Caucasus Federal District believes Russia has to learn to perceive Caucasus as the country’s strategic region. “Caucasus is not an A-bomb or powder barrel threatening to explode; it’s a strategic territory to Russia,” he noted. “This if the reason for all investments, as well as the number of armed forces stationed in the region.” Deputy prime minister cited several reasons to consider Caucasus as a strategic region, one of them the country’s being the basis for Russia’s intellectual potential development. “Caucasus has crucial role in preventing penetration of terrorism, extremism, pseudo-Islam in Russia. Serving as a bridge to Middle East, Caucasus also contributes to Russia’s demographic potential growth.” As Alexander Khloponin stated, development of local production in South Caucasus should be set as a basis for further progress in the region. Related links: 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 | Mirzoyan says meeting with Bayramov was “constructive” At the moment, Ararat Mirzoyan said, there is no basis for additional comments. OSCE vows support for Armenia “in all three directions of security” Achieving stable peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan remains a priority of the OSCE, said Ian Borg. 151 detained as civil disobedience campaigns continue in Yerevan Citizens have been blocking streets in the Armenian capital, demanding Nikol Pashinyan’s resignation. France welcomes Armenia-Azerbaijan meeting in Almaty France has welcomed the new round of negotiations between the foreign ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan. |