PUBLIC DISCUSSIONS ON ARMENIAN-TURKISH RELATIONS IMPORTANT

armradio.am
01.09.2009 15:38

"We have tried to normalize our relations with the neighbor country
with dignity as it befits the civilized world of the 21st century,"
President Serzh Sargsyan declared in his speech at the annual meeting
of the representatives of the central apparatus of the Ministry of
Foreign Affairs and the heads of Armenia’s diplomatic representations.

Serzh Sargsyan reminded that the Republic of Armenia and the
Republic of Turkey have agreed to start their internal political
consultations on the two protocols – the "Protocol on the establishment
of diplomatic relations" and the "Protocol on the development of
bilateral relations." The two documents reflect the summary of the
agreements reached so far.

According to the President the protocols made public on the eve
reflect three core realities.

1. "I have stated on different occasions that our talks with Turkey
and the agreements reached include no precondition connected with
the peaceful settlement of the Nagorno Karabakh issue.

2. As we were assuring, the historical issues between Armenia and
Turkey will be discussed in the format of one of the sub-commissions
of the intergovernmental commission, not a commission of historians.

3. For the first time in the history of independent Armenia the
signing of important international documents wil l be preceded by
public discussions. These will provide an opportunity to listen to
all opinions and approaches."

The President noted that he attaches importance to the activeness of
the diplomats on the issue.

"You should be active during those public discussions both in Armenia
and the Diaspora. You have to outline and clarify the provisions of
the protocols.

I expect active discussions in the Diaspora Armenian communities and
international research centers," Serzh Sargsyan stated.