Closer relations between Azerbaijan and Russia meet Georgia’s interests, and Tbilisi is not at all jealous of its ally to its opponent, Giya Khukhashvili, economic expert for the Center for Public Projects of Georgia, told News.am.

“I do not think jealousy is a source of good advice in foreign policy. Georgia views closer relations between Russia and Azerbaijan as a normal process. It is on Russia that regional stability largely depends on. And if the two states establish closer relations, it will only meet Georgia’s interests,” Khukhashvili said.

If any individuals in the Georgian government feel jealous, it is their problem, he stated.

As to whether Azerbaijan can act as mediator between Georgia and Russia in the future, Khukhashvili said Armenia is a more logical and likely candidate for this role. “Armenia is a country that has formed good relations with both Russia and Georgia. If we speak of a regional mediator, Armenia is a more realistic candidate than Azerbaijan,” the expert said.

As regards the Armenian-Turkish rapprochement, Khukhashvili pointed out that the settlement of any regional conflicts is beneficial for all the states of the region. “If they are direct bilateral talks without any secret points, I think the Armenian-Turkish rapprochement will form the necessary background for regional projects. However, if an agreement is signed to Georgia’s detriment, it would be too bad,” Khukhashvili said.