A look at the history of Georgia and Armenia: Are there more Commonalities or Disappointments

Abstract

The history of Georgia and Armenia occupies an important place in world history. The Transcaucasus remains in a state of volcanic activity because, apart from the interests of great powers, the local peoples also have conflicting interests. For ages, the peoples of Transcaucasia have been an area of devastating wars. The nations of the Transcaucasia have been under the domination of foreign powers.          In the modern world, two global vectors of dynamics of ethnic processes have emerged. These vectors can be characterized as the rapid modernization and unification of material culture, the disappearance of little-used languages, the fusion of ethnic groups, assimilation - on the one hand, the division of the ecumene into the first and third worlds, the segregation by technologically more developed nations of the less developed, ethnic and confessional particularism, nationalism and extremism - on the other. Against the background of such harsh trends of the era, prophecies about the coming conflicts of civilizations, the ideas declared in the modern world and calls for a tolerant attitude towards peoples' cultural and religious differences are perceived as good intentions.    The research aim of the topic  - is to show and confirm with historical examples the importance and necessity of balanced and mutually agreed political, economic, and cultural steps, thanks to which we can achieve the harmonious and peaceful coexistence of the two peoples, moreover ensure the sustainable and comprehensive development of our countries.   The study has been conducted based on methods of content analysis, various methods of analysis of archival materials, and various evidence and information, widely used in modern science. While studying sources and archival documents, the author adheres to the research approach by comparing and analyzing various, sometimes conflicting, facts and views. Moreover, to put it more briefly, the methodological basis of the study is the principle of historicism, the observance of the principle of the chronological sequence of historical events. Furthermore, since the subject of the study will be exclusively historical issues (socio-political, legal, cultural, etc.), the study has been carried out primarily based on the analyzes of historical events and, of course, based on studies of published historical literature on the issue, including his research (Armenology in Russia, 2004, Russia and Armenians, 2015, more than 60 articles on this issue).     The main conclusions of our report are based on a brief historical excursion.   - Common life in our region, there should be a joint vital multifaceted development of the Armenian and Georgian nations, regardless of the problems that have arisen between them. - Unlike political and economic problems, cultural ties between our peoples existed in an atmosphere of readiness to seek compromise and agreement. Therefore, further deepening of business and cultural ties is needed, which, to a certain extent, will contribute to solid political harmony in the region. - The nations of Transcaucasia must understand that newfound independence and development have a higher priority, which, as history shows, can drag on. - As an essential step to resolve the issues that have arisen, I propose to hold meetings between scientists and representatives of the intelligentsia; in this regard, our current joint conference is highly valued, in an atmosphere of mutual restraint, and most importantly, to take steps aimed at eradicating the atmosphere of misunderstanding. The problem lies in the formation of a positive public opinion. - To start meetings and discussions between the intelligentsia, representing different spheres of the culture of the Armenian and Georgian peoples, on the above issues, paying particular attention to the positive aspects of our historical ties. It is vital because these steps can lead our societies to dialogue and compromise. - This applies to both international organizations and European structures. They must redouble their mediation efforts to achieve mutual understanding and ensure peace in this long-suffering region. Tomorrow will be too late, as conflicts tend to develop. After all, the Caucasus is our typical home, and this home must have a solid foundation under a peaceful sky.    Finally, the lessons of history do not get old; they only leave the stage temporarily and then return with a vengeance. They do.