BORDER MUST BE OPENED

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11:43:09 – 12/10/2009

The German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier issued a statement
in connection with singing of the Armenian and Turkish protocols
which runs:

"Armenia and Turkey opened a new page in their histories. I command
this brave step which deserves our respect and recognition. These
arrangements offer concrete prospects for good neighborly relations
based on mutual accord and trust.

This course of rapprochement is also an important contribution to
the Caucasus region for cooperation, security, and stability.

Now the question is to ratify the protocols as soon as possible and
to put them in force. We encourage all the political forces in Turkey
and Armenia to use the present dynamics for the sake of normalizing
relations".

The protocols, besides the establishment of diplomatic relations also
provide for border opening within two months after their entrance
in force.

Regular consultations are to be held between the foreign
ministries. Dialogue has to be carried out on the historic side of the
relations which will include also independent scientific study. The
fulfillment of arrangements must be secured by a joint interstate
commission headed by foreign ministries.

Press service-Foreign Department Berlin, 11 October 2009