Kocharian's Moscow Visit Underscores Strengthening Armenian-Russian Security Cooperation

Armenian President Robert Kocharian's recent visit to Russia underscored the strengthening strategic ties between Yerevan and Moscow. This trend has prompted some regional analysts to raise questions about a possible shift in the strategic balance in the Caucasus.

The centerpiece of Kocharian's January 16-18 visit was a military-technical cooperation agreement that bolsters what is already a close strategic relationship. In addition, Kocharian and Russian President Vladimir Putin signed several economic and cultural agreements. The two leaders also issued a joint declaration on the Nagorno-Karabakh issue, reiterating the call for a peaceful, negotiated solution, as well as pledging vigilance in the struggle to contain international terrorism.

During a joint news conference, Putin offered effusive praise for the bilateral relationship, saying "it proved possible to reach the current level of cooperation