A pro-AK party newspaper described Biden's visit as a waste of time but commonspace.eu political editor said in a comment that "regardless of the bravado talk of AK party mouthpieces, Turkey is in no position to lose the support of the United States as it embarks on a risky military incursion into Syria".

Whilst most European politicians and bureaucrats have been on their summer holidays events in the south-eastern corner of Europe have been moving fast, and somewhat dramatically. In this Summer Dossier Caucasus Concise examines ten important developments over the last six weeks - all with potential long term impact.

The case caused outrage in Armenia, and for a moment strained relations between Russia and its ally in the South Caucasus.

Ali Husseynli said that the additions and changes to the constitution are designed to provide a more flexible management, both in the executive and in all other government structures in the modern period

In an exclusive interview with commonspace.eu, Tamar Zhvania, Chairperson of the Georgian Central Elections Commission says that the campaign so far has been calm and peaceful, but preparations for the 8 October poll are going on in earnest.

"The use of Iranian military bases by a foreign power is an extremely sensitive issue for the Iranian leadership which has for decades based its legitimacy on its claim of success in ridding Iran of foreign domination."

Commonspace.eu guest commentator from Azerbaijan, writing ahead of a referendum on constitutional changes, suggests the authorities are feeling the need for a more inclusive and pluralistic parliament to address challenges to their legitimacy and are taking the precaution of ensuring that in that eventuality presidential authority will prevail.

Azerbaijan has in the past performed well at Olympic competitions and Isaev's gold brings to 15 the number of gold medals won by the country since it started participating as an independent state following the dissolution of the USSR in 1991

Altogether the three countries of the South Caucasus have so far won three gold medals, eight silver and twelve bronze

Starting from Monday, 22 August, commonspace.eu will run daily coverage with news and comments on the referendum taking place in Azerbaijan on 26 September. The referendum seeks popular approval for significant constitutional changes