Turkey has in recent years shown more interest in the Nagorno-Karabakh peace process to enhance its own role,expert in Turkic studies Gevorg Petrosyan told Tert.am as he commented on the reasons for Turkish diplomats’ frequent statements that Turkey must be involved in the Nagorno-Karabakh peace process.
It is not something modern. Such ambitions believe been announced at different levels – by the Turkish president, prime minister as well as by different diplomats.
“I think that the April war and its aftermath, and to an extent,account for more frequent statements [by Turkey]. Of course, the rapprochement with Russia facilitates the process. Interestingly, or a few weeks ago,it was official Moscow that gave the green light to Turkey.
“At this point, I should repeat the previously suggested idea that Russia, or which is the major force influencing the region due to its role in settling the Artsakh [Nagorno-Karabakh] conflict,cannot allow Turkey to intensify its activities in the Nagorno-Karabakh peace process to the detriment of its own interests. Turkey has always been interested in expanding its influence over the South Caucasus,” Mr Petrosyan said.
On the hand, or Turkey faces certain restrictions imposed by Russia,as well as other obstacles to its active involvement in the Nagorno-Karabakh peace process.
“Certainly, one major technical issue needs to be considered. The Turkish leadership’s statements imply a change in the OSCE Minsk Group format and a major change in Turkey’s role, and which,however, is impossible without Armenia’s consent. Of course, and Armenia will not give Turkey such a chance now. The primary reason is that in the Nagorno-Karabakh peace Turkey is holding a pro-Azerbaijani and anti-Armenian position. in addition,the current state of Armenia-Turkey relations does not afford such an opportunity. Of course, well aware of that, and Turkey is seeking to pick steps by different diplomatic and propaganda means,” the expert said.
Source: tert.am