Thursday, March 14, 2013

CACI FORUM

"Central Asia-Caucasus Institute"

Iran and the Caucasus

Iran's expanding activities with respect to the three independent states of the Caucasus have scarcely been noticed, but warrant close attention. To what extent are these normal and simply a revival of the commercial and cultural relationships dating back centuries before the Russian Empire expanded into the region? To what extent are they, rather, the product of destabilizing ideological or geopolitical aspirations in Tehran today? And, if the latter, what are their broader implications to the region and to the world order and how should the U.S. respond?

Thursday, March 7, 2013

Silk Road Forum with Mr. Alex Petriashvili

State Minister Of Georgia for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration

After the 2012 October Parliamentary elections in Georgia there has been a renewed interest towards the developments in the country, priorities and goals of the new Government. In 2012 Georgia passed a litmus test by holding successful parliamentary elections that marked the first peaceful transition of power in the history of the country - another significant step towards achieving the fundamental goal of joining the European family of shared values and principles. From the very first day, the new Georgian government made it clear that Georgia’s western path was irreversible and foreign policy priorities would remain unchanged. Hereby, Georgia’s interest to normalize relations with Russia and its firm quest for European integration and Euro-Atlantic membership is not a choice of “either-or”.

Friday, March 1, 2013

CACI FORUM

"The Central Asia-Caucasus Institute"

Georgia: Political Power Transfer and Its International Implications

Is Georgia experiencing a rotation of government, or regime change? Have the recent elections advanced or retarded institution-building and Western influence in Georgia? What lessons can be drawn for U.S. policy? To consider these issues, The Jamestown Foundation and the SAIS Central Asia–Caucasus Institute are co-hosting a panel discussion of experts from the United States and Europe.