The EU has taken a slow approach to deepening its engagement with the South Caucasus, says Amanda Paul, analyst of Center for European Policy.

In her article posted on Today’s Zaman, Paul commented on the recent regional visit of EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton.

According to her, slow approach is not surprising because the region is located far from Brussels.

“Secondly, because of the region’s important location -- at the crossroads between Europe, Central Asia, Russia and the Middle East -- there has historically and still continues to be today, something of a battle for influence. While Russia still remains the key actor, Iran also keeps a foot in the door,” she says.

The expert recalls about joint projects of Iran and Armenia and Baku’s aspiration “to maintain pragmatic ties with Tehran.”

“Sometimes this is difficult. Tensions arise, not least because of Iranian efforts to “export” fundamental Islam to Azerbaijan,” the article reads.

While none of the three will be joining the EU in the foreseeable future, Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan are negotiating Association Agreements, which include visa facilitation and, in the case of Armenia and Georgia, a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement.

“The South Caucasus is hostage to its troubled past. It is up to all actors involved to help free the region from these chains. The EU has a key role to play in this effort,” the author concludes.