Russia is establishing closer relations with Turkey for a certain period, as the two states are natural rivals in the region, Richard Giragosian, expert for the Armenian Center of National and International Studies told NEWS.am. He believes that, in improving its relations with Russia, Turkey hopes to reduce her influence over the region to a minimum. According to Giragosian, Turkey is carring out active relevant work, which has aroused some western states’ concern.

Giragosian does not think close Russian-Azerbaijani relations are likely. “Azerbaijan does not rust Russia. Aliyev is now relying on the USA,” he said. Russia will hardly take a pro-Azerbaijani position on Nagorno-Karabakh to establish closer ties with Azerbaijan, Giragosian said.