Expert: Rogozin Arrived to Put Pressure on Baku

The visit of the Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin to Azerbaijan is probably intended to put pressure on Baku and warn it about the negative consequences of the ongoing pro-Western course. This opinion was expressed by the Azerbaijani political scientist, head of the East-West Research Center, Arastun Orujlu.

The basis for these assumptions is the image of Rogozin, who curates the Russian MIC. Rogozin is a tough politician, known for his strong statements, a supporter of the military and political strengthening of Russia and the restoration of its sovereign role. He is always sent to places, where Russia wants to bang its fist on the table.

According to Orujlu, lately, in spite of the Western criticism of human rights issues, Baku has been pursuing a steady policy of rapprochement with Washington and Brussels.

 Conclusion of agreements on gas supplies with Turkey is actually an integral part of such a policy aimed at strengthening Europe's energy security and independence from Russia.

All this is worrying Moscow. Previously, Azerbaijan was visited by the Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and the State Duma Speaker Sergey Naryshkin. "But it seems their mission was unsuccessful and so they decided to send Rogozin, who in his proper style, and perhaps with open threats, will give Baku the opinion of Moscow," added Orujlu.

However, Azerbaijan has already passed the point of no return, and the efforts to sway Baku from the pro-Western course will not succeed. "Even if they send five Rogozins, this will not change anything," said Orujlu.

In his view, the negotiations on the renewal of the agreement on the Gabala radar station are also on the verge of final collapse. The expert expects to further strengthen cooperation between Azerbaijan and the West in security. -06B-