AZG Armenian Daily #246, 23/12/2006

Opinion

SERGE SARGSIAN: THERE IS NEITHER NEED NOR SENSE IN
HOSTILITY BETWEEN ARMENIA AND TURKEY

In the interview to the American Wall Street Journal, in the article
entitled "Notwithstanding the Genocide…, " Serge Sargsian, RA Defense
Minister, expressed hope that the negotiations for Turkey’s membership
to EU will open a long cherished opportunity for the establishment
of civil relations between Armenia and Turkey. "The Liberty" web
site informed that Sargsian said that Turkey’s membership to EU will
contribute to creating a richer and more stable neighborhood, which
is in the interests of both Turkey and Armenia. He explained this by
saying that EU member Turkey will become more predictable and easy
to deal with.

Touching upon the issue of the Armenian Genocide< Serge Sargsian
expressed confidence that the Turkish-Armenian relations, and the
issue of the Armenian genocide are important factors for the coming
negotiations for Turkey’s entry to EU. "It’s important to remember
the past to avert the repetition of the crimes against the humanity,"
he said.

In the future relations with Turkey, Sargsian said that he would
welcome the natural establishment of diplomatic and other relations
without any pre-conditions, as the settlement of the current problems
will be carried out through an open dialogue.

At the same time, Sargsian stated that in response to such wishes of
Armenia, Turkey only threatened or punished those who recognized the
Armenian genocide. Any way, till now, Turkey refuses to recognize
the Armenia Genocide, keeps the border with Armenia blocked, tries
to isolate Armenia from the international or regional programs,
and plays no constructive part in the settlement of the Nagorno
Karabakh conflict.

According to Sargsian, Armenia still hopes that Turkey will change and
will be ready to face its history and its future. He called for Turkey,
saying that our countries can’t always remain enemies, as there is
no need and sense in hostility. "Thus, for the sake of our future,
let’s move forward," underscored.

By Aghavni Harutyunian