The Russian President is planning to pay a visit to Turkey on May 11 to discuss energy projects. Do you think this visit is related to the recent gas agreement between Azerbaijan and Turkey?

Medvedev’s visit to Turkey had been planned before Azerbaijan and Turkey reached a gas agreement, therefore, I do not see a parallel in this, especially because the gas talks between Azerbaijan and Turkey continued for a long period.

Which issues do you think may be discussed during the visit?

The meeting will focus on issues of protocols and Karabakh war. It will also discuss the visa issue. As is known, during the recent visit to Russia, Erdogan suggested canceling the visa regime between Turkey and Russia. This issue must also be settled. The meeting may also discuss issues of strategic ties between Turkey and Russia, as well as relations with neighbors.

Considering the overall context, do you think the ratification of protocols between Turkey and Armenia is real?

Considering the internal and external reaction of Turkey regarding this issue, the ratification of protocols is highly unlikely today, especially, because changes will be introduced to the Turkish constitution in summer of this year, parliamentary elections will be held in this country in 2011 and presidential elections might be held in 2012.

Considering the fact that the amendments will be introduced during national voting including voters will vote in 2011 and 2012, the ratification of protocols with Armenia will not be on the agenda in this period.

Meanwhile, it should be taken into account that the ratification of protocols is impossible unless the agreement on the Karabakh is reaches, like Turkish officials have repeatedly said.

Do you think Turkey has become closer to Azerbaijan in particular, if we draw parallel after it concluded an agreement with Armenia about the establishment of diplomatic?

Naturally, Turkey has become closer to Azerbaijan after the sharp reaction of official Baku in a response to Turkey’s intention to set up diplomatic ties with Armenia. It was followed by the decision of the US congress and the Armenian statements which have made Turkey and Azerbaijan even closer. In addition, it should be noted that last year Turkey and Azerbaijan did not coordinate their actions. However, today Azerbaijan and Turkey coordinate their activity on most issues.

Tamilla Sencaply
News.Az