Special representative of the chief secretary of NATO’s Southern Caucasus and Central Asia issues Robert Simons has announced in Baku that NATO isn’t against having Russian military bases in Armenia. In his words, NATO’s decision is the same as that of the OSCE and its principles-military bases can be allocated if the side agrees with it.
“The Georgian government was against it and Russia is currently removing its military bases, which we appreciate. But the Armenian government is for it,” said Robert Simons.
He also said that NATO is not working towards competing with Russia in the Southern Caucasus region and it is establishing ties with each country by dual contracts.
“As for the possibility of allocating peacekeeping troops in the Karabagh conflict zone, it all depends on Armenia and Azerbaijan. If the two countries make the decision and apply to NATO, then NATO will begin discussions,” said R. Simons.
He said that NATO is not involved in resolving the regional conflicts, although it is worried over them.
“The Karabagh conflict resolution is being taken care of by the OSCE. We hope that both sides will come to terms, which in turn will help develop the cooperation between the regional countries and NATO and make it efficient,” said the top deputy of NATO.