Armenia should be most serious about Russian-Turkish relations, Ruben Safrastyan, Director of the Institute of Oriental Studies, told journalists January 18. Russia is unable to struggle against Turkey’s policy of Neo-Ottomanism. It can only act as observers.

According to him, Russia is interested in economic tiers with Turkey, without focusing on geopolitical problems.

“However, in the geopolitical aspect, the two states are not drawing closer to each other, and nothing can be ruled out. It is a lull now,” Safaryan said.

Neither the U.S. nor the European Union (EU) is willing to see Turkey playing a dominant role in the region. “I am sure that Turkey will never become a dominant regional state,” the expert said. The ruling Justice and Development Party’s policy may have grave consequences for Turkey itself, as the party fails to consider the country’s potential.

The Turkey-declared policy of “zero problems with neighbors” means all of its neighbors must obey to its will, the expert said.

“But Armenia will never submit to Turkey. I hope that Armenian will continue its new policy,” Safrastyan said.