In a bid to gauge the evolving dynamics and foster stability in the South Caucasus region, members of the Political and Security Committee of the Council of the European Union (EU) are set to embark on a visit to Armenia. This move comes amidst ongoing efforts to assess the progress of the Armenian-Azerbaijani peace process and understand the broader regional landscape.

Questions linger about the potential impact of this visit on the peace agreement and the overall role the EU aims to play in the South Caucasus. Offering insights into these inquiries, Arnold Stepanyan, a prominent political analyst specializing in the South Caucasus region, shared his perspectives with Ednews.

Stepanyan emphasized the significance of such visits, portraying them as concerted efforts to bolster stability while supporting Armenia's sovereignty. He underscored the growing pragmatic approach adopted by global powers, wherein geopolitical interests often supersede ideological values.

"The visits of European officials, in various capacities, serve as persistent endeavors to stabilize the South Caucasus, particularly by reinforcing Armenia's sovereignty," Stepanyan remarked. "Given the region's strategic position, there's a palpable shift towards prioritizing pragmatic alliances and economic interests over traditional ideological affiliations."

Stepanyan highlighted the strategic importance of the South Caucasus in facilitating alternative energy routes and enhancing trade connectivity with Western countries. He suggested that fostering stability in the region could serve the dual purpose of diminishing Russia's influence while integrating transit states into the collective West.

"The imperative lies in mitigating potential conflicts, fostering stability, and paving the way for greater integration of transit states into Western economic frameworks," Stepanyan explained. "By doing so, the region could emerge as a pivotal hub for energy supplies and trade, further aligning with the geopolitical interests of Western nations."

As the EU delegation prepares to engage with Armenian stakeholders, the visit underscores the bloc's commitment to fostering stability and security in the South Caucasus, while also signaling a broader strategic realignment towards pragmatic cooperation in the region.

Akbar Novruz