Tuesday, December 18 2018 16:33

ArmInfo. Russia's position on the issue of the CSTO Secretary General is based on the basic interest of strengthening the organization and interaction between  the member countries of the structure.

The Russian Ambassador to Armenia Sergey Kopirkin stated this on December 18 at a press conference.  He noted that after the appointment of a new Secretary  General, the effectiveness of the CSTO will certainly increase. The  Ambassador also stressed that Russia is interested in this issue  being resolved in such a way that the effectiveness of the  organization does not weaken.

"I want to note that this issue is being discussed and solved at the  level of state leaders. I hope that our mutual interest in the  effectiveness of the organization will underlie the solution of this  issue," the Ambassador stressed.

When ArmInfo correspondent asked how the Ambassador looks at the  recent tensions between Armenia, Belarus and Kazakhstan due to the  controversy surrounding the Secretary General, and quite derogatory  rhetoric at a rather high level that cannot contribute to the  effectiveness of the organization's Kopirkin noted: "I think that the  leaders of the CSTO member countries proceed from our common  interests, that is, what unites us and what is very important for us.  I'm sure that ultimately all the contradictions and decisions will be  made based on an understanding of these issues. This is our common  heritage and everyone has an understanding of this".

To note, the place of the CSTO Secretary General is currently vacant.  The fact is that on November 2, the head of the organization, Yuri  Khachaturov, was recalled by Armenia because of accusations of  overthrowing the constitutional system in the so-called "case of  March 1, 2008". The official Yerevan suggested to the colleagues from  the CSTO to consider the possibility of replacing the candidacy from  Armenia, however, Belarus and Kazakhstan were opposed, suggesting a  candidate from the Republic of Belarus. The situation was heated in  connection with the issue raised by Yerevan on the sale by countries  - members of the defense union of weapons to a third country -  Azerbaijan, which constantly threatens Armenia with war over the  Karabakh issue.