Richard Armitage
Do you expect any changes in the present US leaders' approach to Azerbaijan?
I don't expect a major change in the relationship between the US and Azerbaijan.
Is it possible to make progress on the Karabakh settlement in the near future?
Although progress is possible, I don't see a rapid resolution.
Do you think that the right to self-determination can justify separatism and occupation by use of force, as was the case in Karabakh?
No
There is an opinion that Moscow has more power than the US as mediator in the Karabakh process, because it is closer to Azerbaijan and Armenia geographically and economically, and has influence over them. Do you agree?
Moscow may have more influence than the US for the reasons you state but the question is whether they truly intend to seek a resolution.
What could the great powers (the US, Russia, the EU) do if Azerbaijan decides to liberate Karabakh by war?
War would not be in the interest of Azerbaijan, as it would inhibit the economic growth of the country and limit the government's ability to develop human capital.
Are you sure that Azerbaijan can play its role in Europe's energy security by seeing through Nabucco and other energy projects?
Azerbaijan (and Turkey) have long been at the crossroads of East and West. I believe that Azerbaijan can play this role with energy... but also as a transportation hub. The future should be bright.
Leyla Tagiyeva
News.Az
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