Even if Armenia recognizes Nagorno-Karabakh, it does not at all mean U.S., Russia, France and other world powers will recognize NKR independence as well. Thus, NKR recognition by Armenia will not dramatically change the situation, Head of the Caucasus Institute, political scientist Alexander Iskandaryan told reporters on September 25.

According to him, Armenia cannot demand the recognition of Karabakh, as the negotiation process is underway to resolve the conflict. The Armenian diplomacy seems to have agreed with the thesis that Nagorno-Karabakh’s status will be the end point of the process.

“Legal recognition of Karabakh by Armenia poses a great risk to the process, which may be interrupted, as one cannot clap with one hand and dance tango without a partner. Unfortunately - or fortunately - Armenia’s partner is Azerbaijan,” Iskandaran said.

The expert pointed out the necessity to preserve the present format of the OSCE Minsk Group, as the involvement of different countries in the process will positively affect on the conflicting parties. However, one should not demand a conflict resolution from the OSCE Minsk Group, unless the sides express their wish.

As to the reason why Armenia will not recognize Nagorno-Karabakh, Iskandaryan said: “The point is Russia is Armenia’s strategic partner and that would mean spoiling relations with Russia. The same refers to the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia. Armenia is on good terms with the West, but the recognition will lead to a rupture.”