NATO Official: Armenia Makes Clear Shift in Foreign Policy, Creating Some Distance from Russia

NATO has expressed optimism about a joint declaration signed by Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. Javier Colomina, NATO's Secretary General’s Special Representative for the Caucasus and Central Asia, mentioned this during an interview with Georgia's First Channel television.

"We believe it's excellent news. We've been very supportive of efforts to normalize relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan. We've backed these efforts from the European Union, the United States, and those carried out bilaterally by Armenia and Azerbaijan. We'll continue supporting these and remain hopeful. Maintaining stability in the Caucasus region is crucial for us, not only through our work in Georgia but also through stability brought about by Armenia and Azerbaijan," stated the NATO special representative.

Responding to whether Armenia has shown interest in getting closer to NATO, Colomina noted a clear decision by Armenia to shift its foreign policy to distance itself from Russia.

"It's something we've encouraged. Armenians have the freedom to make their own decisions, and they've chosen to do so. I believe they are moving closer to us, asking for more cooperation, political dialogue, and increased NATO presence and visibility in our relationship. We encourage decisions that promote regional stability made by our partners. This is very important to us," added the NATO official."