The visit to the Transcaucasus of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Russian affairs greatly excited the local elites. Tina Kaidanow's visit resembled a reconnaisance tour. The visit was aimed at strengthening ties with the authorities of the Caucasus, as well as promoting connections with forces which are likely to replace them one day. Well-known Russian expert Alexei Vlasov told Georgia Times about possible consequences.
The USA has been trying to pose as a dominating force in the South Caucasus for a long time. That is why the visit to Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan resembles the visit of a governor-general to the colonies. Kaidanow, known for her harshness, made it clear that the USA is not going to relax its attention to the region, despite the revolutions in the Middle East and Africa.
To all appearances, she has hinted that they may find themselves in the place of Hosni Mubarak and his unlucky counterparts, which is plausible, taking into consideration the activization of opposition supporters in the region, especially in Georgia. Moreover, it is evident that the USA is trying to promote connections with opposition factions in the region. Tina Kaidandow payed substantial attentian to the meetings with opposition organizations.
From Mr.Vlasov's point of view, the USA is trying to explore the situation in the region, trying to promote its influence in the region, but hasn't yet launched any projects aimed at this. Vlasov considers the political situation in Azerbaijan to be the most stable in the region. However, the expert noted that this country attracts the special attention of Washington because of its energy resources, and there is a likelihood of deliberate activization of social protest, which may be used in Russia in 2012. He has also added that a revolution in Azerbaijan would be equally beneficial to Iran and the USA. The expert notes that it is no mere coincidence that the USA supports Azerbaijani opposition bloggers and youth activists educated in Europe.
Armenia and Georgia are currently more likely to undergo revolution. Vlasov notes that there are no internal prerequisites for the revolutions, but they could be initiated from abroad. He also said that Kaidanow's visit to Georgia should be viewed in the context of approaching opposition activities. Vlasov said: " Nino Burjanadze's position is regarded by the US political establishment with interest and attention. She is considered a more acceptable political figure than the current president ".
By 'Georgia Times'
