The political analyst notes that we should take advantage of the opportunity
The Georgian government is still in search for the roads of the import of gas to its country. Along with the talks with Russian “Gazprom”, Georgia is considering the issue of importing the Iranian gas. It is not excluded that the gas will reach Georgia from Iran through Armenia. While these issues are being discussed, Armenia’s President is currently on an official visit to Georgia. According to the official press release, the two leaders had discussed mutually beneficial projects for the development of the economy. Nothing is still talked about the Iran-Armenia-Georgia possible gas pipeline. Chairman of the Board of “Analytical Center on Globalization and Regional Cooperation” (ACGRC), Stepan Grigoryan, given these developments, notes that it is a very opportune moment to take advantage of this opportunity and act quickly.
Iran is willing to work with Armenia, the relations with Georgia are also in an “average level”, it does not have the former relationship with Azerbaijan, and in addition, the pipeline from Armenia will get to Georgia by a short-cut road. “Now, a lot depends on us. We need to make a political move. We, roughly speaking, need to show whether we are ready, we are a sovereign country and can make an independent decision,” says Mr. Grigoryan and notes that there were no technical problems related to the gas pipeline, it is possible to lay the pipeline very quickly, within few months, the only disturbing factor could be Russia. “The final word goes to Russia, Armenia is listening to Russia, – he says and adds, – If Georgia continues to negotiate with “Gazprom” too, I am very happy, then there’s a chance. Indeed, there is a chance and it should not be missed.
This pipeline can pass through Azerbaijan and thru Armenia. Here, it is necessary to work operatively. If a pipeline enter Georgia thru Azerbaijan, then to Turkey and then to Europe, then there will be no second pipeline.” Mr. Grigoryan says that we need to show a political will to negotiate with Georgia and the “Gazprom”. “Russia is jealous of Armenia’s working with other partners. Armenia should be able to persuade “Gazprom”, – says our interlocutor, noting that if necessary, we should fight, we should do the same as we did during the electricity price hike. The Russian company did not use the resources correctly, unrest was raised, and they had to sell. Today, if the “Gazprom” that has a huge role in Armenia does not behave itself as appropriate, there should be complaints, and we will force them to renounce the gas systems. But a better way is for the authorities of Armenia to negotiate,” said Stepan Grigoryan, thinking that in this case, the “Gazprom” will not object that we extend the gas from Iran to Georgia, then to Turkey and then to Europe.
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Armenia will economically benefit from this deal, according to the political analyst. “The result will be much greater for Armenia. We will distribute the gas and receive money from it. A 100 or 200 million dram will go to the budget, but most importantly, we will enter into this international game,” says Mr. Grigoryan.
Hripsime HOVHANNISYAN,
“Aravot” daily
