Armenia best route for Iranian gas transit to EuropeFebruary 13, 2009 - 13:54 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The recent events have considerably affected the situation in the Caucasus, an Armenian expert said. "Implementation of regional projects bypassing Armenia is now questioned. Tensions over South Ossetia still persist. Besides, the transit route through Georgia is too expensive and can be easily replaced by Armenia," Vahan Dilanyan told a news conference today. "At the same time, Azerbaijan's bellicose statements and ongoing increase of the defense budget make an impression that it can follow Georgia's ways. Besides, Azeri oil and gas resources are not enough for Nabucco, which demands 15 billion cubic meters of gas for a start," he said. "Under the circumstances, Iran is likely to be invited to the project. Given the U.S. and EU recent optimistic statements, it's quite possible. Thus, Armenia can become the most convenient and secure route for the transit of Iranian gas to Europe," Dilanyan said. The expert also reminded that Turkish Foreign Minister Ali Babacan said that Armenia can become an alternative route for Iranian gas transit. "The global crisis has testified that economic benefits come to replace political ones in implementation of regional projects. And Armenia stands a good chance to make use of it," Dilanyan said. 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 | Ameriabank's Trade Finance portfolio enriched with four prestigious awards from EBRD and IFC Ameriabank received the awards from international financial institutions in recognition of its trade finance operations. Armenian Economy Minister to make trip to UAE May 20-22 A delegation led by Minister of Economy Gevorg Papoyan will travel to the UAE capital of Abu Dhabi on May 20-22 Armenia Security Council chief traveling to Qatar Secretary of the Security Council of Armenia Armen Grigoryan will travel on a working visit to Qatar. Pillars installed in Armenian border village of Kirants In the Armenian village of Kirants, three border markers have been installed, and border guards stand next to them. |