A referendum on independence is scheduled in Iraq on September 25 by the decision of the self-government of Kurdistan. Many people in Armenia are excited about this occasion, however, we asked an associate expert of the Institute for International and Security Affairs Gevorg Melikyan whether there are no dangers.
“The enthusiasm of many people in Armenia including some of my colleagues regarding this occasion is beyond my comprehension. “What is against Turkey, is in favour of Armenia” logic can’t work in this case, neither this referendum could have a positive impact on the process of recognition of Nagorno Karabakh independence. In external tough policies, we need to change approaches according to the circumstances and the need to gain maximum benefit.
The establishment of Kurdistan, possible military operations, the flow of refugees, including to Armenia, etc., are very dangerous in several respects, especially that the long-sighted vision of the Kurds also implies the creation of Great Kurdistan, which includes most of Western Armenia. The Kurdish issue has always contradicted and contradicts the interests of Armenia, and supporting Kurds in any way can lead to security problems for Armenia. I know that many will disagree with this approach, but deeper studies have shown that cooperating with Kurds is not driven by the interests of Armenia and Armenians. I hope people have not forgotten the severely negative role the Kurds had in the Armenian Genocide”, noted our interlocutor.
Emma GABRIELYAN
