Why does Armenia care whether the Kurds become independent or not, talking about it all day? The primitive answer to that question is, “what is bad for Turkey is good for us”. Even if it is true, then it should be taken into consideration that the creation of an independent Kurdish state is, apparently, “bad” for Iran, and the opinion of the ally state, of course, should be taken into consideration, although it is possible also to disagree. Iraq, Arab countries are also against the referendum held yesterday, the West is not particularly excited either. Israel is for, and it is clear why: a great piece of Arabic world is separating.
If we leave all these calculations aside, then the nations that have struggled for independence for decades, and ultimately have reached their goal, just humanly deserve respect. The Kurds, at least, are close to that, although the influential states in the region are all against it. Of course, it is not going to be easy for Iraqi Kurdistan, armed clashes are inevitable, first and foremost with Turkey. But, in spite of everything, people have decided to take that step, they are ready to fight for sovereignty, they are not afraid that “the Turks will devour them”. Here, I think, there is something to learn.
Of course, the Kurdish state is facing not only external challenges. Corruption and clans-defects that we, Armenians, are very well aware of- are threats for Kurdistan from inside. Despite the fact that several months ago the head of the Kurdish autonomy, Masud Barzani, stated that he would retire after the recognition of an independent Kurdish state, and his close relatives also would not hold positions, the way they have occupied the positions with the whole family… to tell the truth, I do not believe. Power is sweet: especially in not well-established states, the authorities always have the following “justification”: “we would like to resign, but whose shoulders can we trust to carry the burden of this state?”. I think Barzani will say something like this.
What kind of attitude should Armenia hold, if an independent Kurdish state is declared? I don’t know, I’m neither a diplomat nor a specialist in international affairs. But one thing is clear: the creation of a new state with a multi-million population will change the status quo created over the decades in the region. It will create opportunities for everyone, including Armenia, but also will create dangers. Superficial judgments and hasty steps will definitely be obstructive in this case.
Aram ABRAHAMYAN
