ArmInfo. By means of steps similar to the video conference with the participation of the Armenian, French and Azerbaijani leaders and of President of the European Council Charles Michel, Paris is seeking to emphasize its role in the ongoing processes in the south Caucasus, the political scientist Robert Gevondyan told ArmInfo.
"Thus, with the OSCE Minsk Groups being actually inactive, France, following Russia's example, is seeking to become another platform for a dialogue between Yervan and Baku. And Paris' aspiration is, by and large, in Armenia's interests - primarily in view of diversification of the major actors in the settlement process. Defending and advancing Armenia's interests with Moscow being the only mediator is a rather difficult task to accomplish," he said.
As regards the OSCE Minsk Group's inactivity, Mr Gevondyan believes the reason is Baku sparing no effort to torpedo this format. Azerbaijan is seeking to persuade everyone that this format has exhausted its potential. These prospects are not at all in Armenia's interests, and Yerevan must spare no effort to ensure the opposite.
On the other hand, Baku cannot reject all the formats, as it will appear counterproductive. And this is the reason for Baku's involvement in the French initiatives. Aliyev is perfectly aware of the risks he is facing, particularly the Minsk Group's reincarnation, so he is seeking to defuse the situation by participating in the Paris initiative.
As to the United State's role and policy, it is delegating its allies, particularly France, with powers. Moreover, the USA is thereby "managing" certain processes. In this context, Mr Gevondyan points out a striking difference between the Joe Biden administration's policy and that implemented by his predecessor Donald Trump.
"It is clear that such formats should not be expected to ensure any breakthrough in the settlement process. As regards Aliyev's becoming more yielding, it requires not only mediatory efforts, but also Armenia's becoming a stronger international person. This is the only thing that could force Baku into minor concessions only to prevent major ones in the future. In the current situation, however, Azerbaijan will reject all the proposals by Armenia, as they think they can grab even more," Mr Gevondyan said.