According to the director of the Politika foundation Vyacheslav Nikonov the Russian Federation approaches the issue regulation of the Armenian-Turkish relations with consciousness by thinking that in this case Armenia will fortify its strategic depth. In his opinion Armenia will have a chance to quickly come out from the difficult geopolitical context because certain neighboring countries have evident hostility against Armenia. “It is really a historical event, which will alter the geopolitical situation not only in South Caucasus but the whole region,” said Nikonov and added that it will become a positive development, which will enable to implement projects, from which Russia will benefit as well. In the event of regulation of relations Russia will start to implement programs both with Armenia and Turkey and first of all in the economic sector. According to him, during the past years Turkey has a very independent attitude around many matters. Turkey is a NATO member and besides that pursues its national interest, which in certain cases, may not match with the standpoint of the US. When speaking of the possible influence of Turkey on Armenia after the opening of the border Nikonov mentioned that it’s going to be quite strong by considering certain historic facts. That influence may also be positive because Turkey is a quite strong economic player and the improvement of the Armenian-Turkish relations may conduce to the development of Armenia’s economy. Russia is undoubtedly interested in this. Besides that there will be the possibility of developing transit business and this will be useful for Russia as well. “The opening of the border is endorsed by both Russia and the US. A dominating part of Turkey’s elite is also interested in that. Same can be said about Armenia’s leadership,” added Nikonov.
