YEREVAN. – As a result of the agreement reached between Georgia and Gazprom Export LLC, Armenia again appeared in the role of the aggrieved party, economist Ashot Yeghiazaryan told Armenian News-NEWS.am.

In his words, it would be beneficial for the Armenian side if Georgia obtain additional natural gas reserves from Iran, via Armenia.

“We [i.e.] would have some opportunity to maneuver in the [natural] gas sector,” added Yeghiazaryan. “Armenia again appeared in the role of the aggrieved party, since Gazprom oversees the gas transport system of the country. And at this point, the Armenian side did not present a clear position, even on this matter.”

The economist noted that if Georgia starts to buy gas from Russia, the business deal, whereby Georgia plans to buy gas from Iran via Armenia, will not take place.

“Armenia doesn’t have independence in this matter,” stressed Ashot Yeghiazaryan. “Gazprom conducts the [respective] negotiations on behalf of Armenia. In this sense, it is this company that represents the interests of Armenia.”

Pursuant to an agreement reached Wednesday with Gazprom Export LLC, if needed, Georgia will receive natural gas from Russia for $185, instead of $215, per 1,000 cubic meters.

Until now, however, Georgia was receiving 10 percent of the Russian natural gas being supplied to Armenia, and as a transfer fee.