IRAN MUST BE PART OF CAUCASUS PEACE, SAYS MARKARIAN
Alik
Thursday, October 23, 2008
TEHRAN (Alik)–It is unacceptable to be a part of the Turkish-proposed
Caucasus stability pact without the participation of Iran, said
Armenian Revolutionary Federation Bureau chairman Hrant Markarian
during a town hall meeting at the Sukerian Hall of the Nairi Armenian
Cultural Society during his three-day visit to Iran this week.
"For us it is unacceptable to take part in Turkey’s proposed Caucasus
pact without the participation of Iran, because we believe that
without Iran such a pact would not be balanced and would endanger
Armenian interests," said Markarian.
The ARF leader also discussed Armenia-Turkey relations, reiterating his
party’s firm stance that under no circumstances should any compromises
should be made based on Turkish demands, since Armenia, for years, has
called for the establishment of diplomatic ties without pre-conditions.
"The Turkey-Armenia border was open until 1993, but was closed in that
year with three pre-conditions laid out by Turkey for its re-opening:
a) the withdrawal of Armenian forces from Karabakh; b) ending the
pursuit of the international recognition of the Armenian Genocide;
and c) the recognition of Turkish borders by Armenia. However, the
leadership of Armenia has always advocated the opening of borders
without any preconditions," explained Markarian.
Finding any compromise on that issue unacceptable, Markarian also added
that Turkey should never become involved in the Karabakh conflict
resolutions process, in any capacity, including playing a mediation
role in Armenian-Azeri relations.
In discussing the status of the Caucasus region in general, Markarian
said that since the collapse of the Soviet Union, the West attempted
to infiltrate the region in an effort to establish spheres of
influence. The West was able to penetrate public and governmental
structures by utilizing and financing non-governmental organizations,
which played key roles in the various "colored revolutions" in
the region.
Marakrian added that the West was attempted similar efforts by
attempting to influence the last presidential elections.
"When we were deciding whether to join [the coalition government] we
were considering various scenarios and issues, including the increase
of foreign intervention, which was threatening our self-governance
and independence. That is why we joined the coalition to counter
these elements and until such time that it continues–that we have
work to do–we will remain in the coalition," said Markarian.
"When we are unable to impact policy, let no one believe that we will
stay in the coalition. We have two key issues in Armenia: to maintain
national policies within the government’s political posturing and to
establish justice in the country," added Markarian.