Endeavours of Regional Collaboration

and the 2nd Conference of Transcaucasian Republics (April 9-22, 1920)

Summary

Thorough analysis of negotiations, conducted at the 2nd Conferebnce of the Transcaucasian Republics on April 9-22, 1920, in Tiflis, reveals that all three republics had diverse priorities and goals. Azerbaijan relayed on military and political means of Turkey and put forward a thesis of confederation, which would be implemented against Russia. Georgia was interested in the future of Batum area (oblast) and in possibility of partnership. Armenian leaders were of informed opinion that confederation was an inefficient model of integration. they preferred independence, or regional sources of power, furnished with supervisory and executive authority. Government  of the Republic of Armenia wished to overcome regional problems by means of bilateral talks, they fervently hoped for the Allies' asssistance and demanded peace in exchange for mutual actions. Heads of Azerbbaijan failed to negotiate the reliable alliance with Georgia, so with the certain participation of Turkey they switched in policy. They interchanged independence for attainable territorial gains at the expense of Armenians; and accepted new partnership not with the Turkey's adversary, the Entente, but with its predominant companion at the moment - Soviet Russia. Azerbbaijan didn't have stronger cultural ties, orientation or inclination towards the new Bolshevist regime, than its neighbours. However, they were pioneers who totally changed their ideology and social-economic life, revoked private property. And these, dictated by the Turk poloticians measures, appeared to be useful.

In their turn, authorities of the Republic of Armenia were not mistaken neither in pursiut to exploit them, nor in the much talk about integration. The latter required definite strength and stability of borders. So, simultaneously with the 2nd Conference of the Transcaucasian Republics they decided to send troops in support of Karabagh Armenians; what resulted in the decision to unify Artsakh with Armenia. //-71