Diplomacy

Armenia Takes One Step Towards Europe

Immediate effect will be to ease visa process; broader trade benefits will come later.

Georgia: US Didn't Force Tougher Visa Rules for Iran

Minister insists decision made internally, not connected with American concerns about Tbilisi as haven for Iranian sanctions-busters.

Armenia Weighs Foreign Economic Partnerships

Some experts warn of dangers of getting too close to Moscow, others of abandoning its protection.

Armenia: Anger at Land Deal With Iran

Justice minister says local authorities don’t have right to lease farmland to neighbouring state.

Russians Say Tajikistan Trains "Health Hazard"

Georgia-Russia: Hostile Forever?

As new administration seeks thaw with Moscow, president’s people want pro-West, anti-Russia clauses written into constitution.

US Focus on Fuel, Not Freedom in Turkmenistan

Moscow to Abandon Azeri Radar Site

Gabala facility was key early warning post, but Moscow isn’t prepared to accept massive rent increase just to keep it.

Georgia's New Leaders Seek Fresh Start With Russia

So far, Moscow has given only a guarded response.

Moscow's Doors Still Open to Uzbekistan

Leading Russian expert says it’s up to Tashkent to decide what kind of relationship it wants with Moscow.