SOLANA HAILS START OF NORMALIZATION BETWEEN TURKEY AND ARMENIA

Interfax
Sept 1 2009
Russia

EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy
Javier Solana has praised the launch of efforts intended to normalize
relations between Turkey and Armenia.

"I welcome yesterday’s agreement between Turkey and Armenia to
start internal political consultations on the protocols providing
the framework for establishing diplomatic relations," Solana said in
a statement.

"This is a crucial step towards normalization of bilateral relations,
which would greatly contribute to peace, security and stability
throughout an important region of Europe," he said.

"I commend the courage and vision of both sides to move forward
with this historic process. I hope the two protocols can be signed,
ratified, and implemented in the near term," the EU official said.

"I congratulate Switzerland for its mediation efforts and stand
ready to offer support and assistance to the normalization process,"
he added.

From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress