Russian MP: Presence of historical facts in modern politics is very dangerous

Do you share Turkey’s viewpoint that a move by the U.S. Congress House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs to adopt the “Armenian genocide” resolution poses a threat to security in the South Caucasus?

Of course, the U.S. Congress committee’s decision poses no direct threat to security in the South Caucasus. But it may spark other things. It can boost conflicts in the region giving rise to new legal demands of the sides regarding many unresolved ethnic and territorial problems in the Caucasus. Such a probability does persist.  

However, there is direct threat neither for the South Caucasus and the Republic Turkey. No doubt, the decision by the U.S. congressmen is a strong blow to Turkey’s interests.

In your opinion, what is the reason behind the U.S. Congress move?  

It should be noted, that this issue has been raised on numerous occasions. Of course, actions against Armenians in that historical period were very cruel. But one needs to understand that it took place a long time ago. I believe the recent decision by the Committee on Foreign Affairs was result of long-term efforts of pro-Armenian and Greek lobby in the U.S. Of course, this document would not have been adopted if Washington had not deviated from policy of accepting Turkey as its political ally in the Middle East and South Caucasus.   

Can this decision spark a new tension in the South Caucasus and change relation between the two countries?

Of course, change in relations will take place in the Turkey-Armenia-Azerbaijan triangle first and foremost since the recent move aims to encourage all forces critical of Turkey. In other words, all forces opposed against Turkey will enhance potential. From this standpoint, this will lead to shift in balance of forces and situation in the South Caucasus in an indirect way.

From your point of view, can this impact Russia’s interests and its mediation efforts to resolve the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan?

I believe these developments will have no direct influence on interests of sides involved in organizing the Nagorno-Karabakh negotiations. However, due to changes in overall political situation because of the recent developments, it will have an indirect impact on certain aspects of talks.  

How did Moscow take the decision made in the U.S.? May it cause an anxiety in the Russian leadership?

I can not exactly say how the Russian leadership took this decision. But I can say that it keeps a close on such things. Russian politicians attentively estimate what impact such actions may have on situation around our country and its interests. I believe it is wrong to present historical facts as part of the modern policy. In general, presence of historical facts in modern politics is very dangerous.

In your opinion, can the Nagorno-Karabakh negotiations now acquire a new direction?

I do not think so. I think the U.S. Congress Committee’s decision will not directly influence the Nagorno-Karabakh negotiations. It will have no direct and deep influence. But something will change anyway.


R. Mehdiyev
Day.Az