Armenia crippled Kocharian led the war effort against Azerbaijan Meetings have become frequent between President Robert Kocharian of Armenia and President Heidar Aliyev of Azerbaijan as they struggle to end a conflict which has brought poverty and misery to both their countries. Armenia was the victor, but it is now crippled by an economic blockade imposed by Azerbaijan and neighbouring Turkey. Room for manoeuvre is cramped by nationalist opposition to concessions. Much may depend on how secure Mr Kocharian and Mr Aliyev feel at home. Both have strengthened their political power bases over the last year, and Washington is dangling the carrot of massive aid to both countries if they reach a settlement - a glimmer of hope yet, but still little more than that.
Mutual antagonism runs very deep.
Mr Aliyev says Karabakh must be returned to Azerbaijan. The response of the Armenians of Karabakh to that is - only over our dead bodies.