– What is the role of the European Union in the process of Karanakh conflict settlement?
– The EU is not involved in the process as a separate institution, and its influence on the process is very small. The role assigned to Peter Semneby in South Caucasus to be involved in the conflicts to some extent did not come true. He failed to find even the format, due to which he would be able to visit the region of the conflict.
– Do you mean the problem is in his professionalism?
– No. It is about the limits, and the EU cannot create an opportunity for its representative to visit the region. The EU has very good and effective mechanisms to support the civic society development and democratic institutions. However it does not have the mechanisms to be deeply involved in the conflict settlement.
– What can the EU do with the powers it has now?
– The EU can create a situation, in which the parties want to go toward peace and find the mechanisms to peace. For example, the situation with Kosovo was very interesting, when all around wanted to be EU members to provide security and peace. From this point of view the EU has a very attractive “hidden potential” to bring peace as a result of Europeanization. However it cannot do it now because it does not have the mechanisms of being involved in the conflict settlement of Karabakh yet.
– How does Russia’s involvement prevent the EU’s involvement in the region?
– Russia and the US have big interests in our region. Instead of that, due to having the decision of one country and opportunity to maneuver in the region they are more flexible. The change depends on developing relations with the EU. Meantime, the inner models of presidential and parliamentarian institutions, electoral systems of both Armenia and Azerbaijan are European. The three presidents of Armenia said that they see the future of the country in Europe. Anyway every country, including Russia and the US, has their own interests in the region. Armenia should follow its interests as well. These interests require closer cooperation with Europe and we have to do that.