Turkish Press
Sept 6 2008

Turkish president hopes Armenia visit will mend strained ties

Turkey’s President Abdullah Gul said Saturday he hoped his historic
Armenia trip would pave the way for closer ties between the two
neighbours with a long history of animosity over Ottoman Empire
massacres.

"It is my wish that this match will help lift the barriers dividing
two people who share a common history and will contribute to regional
friendship and peace," Gul said before leaving for Yerevan where he
will watch Turkey and Armenia play in a World Cup football qualifier
match.