YEREVAN.- Azerbaijan’s attempts to press Georgia on gas issues will yield a reverse effect, said Johnny Melikyan, an expert on Georgia.

Georgian side realizes that energy dependence is disadvantageous, he told reporters on Saturday. The gas price was one of the key points discussed during Ivanishvili’s visit to Baku.

“After the visit Azerbaijani side reportedly expressed readiness to further cut gas price for Georgia,” he added. Relations may deteriorate if Azerbaijan attempts to blackmail Tbilisi.

“The path of balanced policy is full of obstacles but we have a good opportunity to work with Georgian side in this direction,” he added.

Under a 5-year agreement with state oil company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR), Georgia is receiving gas for $167 per 1 thousand cubic meters, one of the best offers in post-Soviet area.