The Zhamanak newspaper had an interview with Richard Giragosian, Director of the Center for National and International Studies. Below is an excerpt from the interview:

-The new protocol on the deployment of Russian military bases in Armenia indicates that Russia intends to ensure Armenia’s security. What are the neighbors Russia plans to defend Armenia from if both Turkey and Azerbaijan are Russia’s strategic allies?

-I am inclined to doubt any state’s promises to help Armenia in any way. Armenia must build up its own strength, without relying on any false promises of any nation – be it Russia, NATO or any other state. Independence is of key importance from the viewpoint of complementarity and of a balanced policy. And it should not be rejected so easily.