SOCIALIST DEPUTY URAS URGES BETTER RELATIONS WITH ARMENIA

BIAnet.org
Oct 26 2009
Turkey

Deputy for the Freedom and Solidarity Party (ODP) Ufuk Uras criticizes
the opposition parties in the matter of President’s visit to Armenia.

He also makes a series of demands to improve the conditions of the
Armenian citizens of Turkey.

Istanbul – BIA News Center05 Eylul 2008, Cuma Deputy for the Freedom
and Solidarity Party (ODP) Ufuk Uras said, "The steps taken because of
the soccer match between Turkey and Armenia should be a beginning of
a new era" and he listed a series of demands to improve the conditions
of the Armenian citizens of Turkey.

Getting ready to go to Erivan for the game, Uras urged for the opening
of the border and the development of the economic relations between
the two countries.

"Our Armenian citizens should feel themselves as the equal citizens of
this country; they should not face any discrimination in social life,
especially in public life."

"The history should be discussed freely; all the restriction should
be removed. An atmosphere of discussion without any prejudices should
be encouraged."

President Abdullah Gul too is flying to Erivan to watch the game as
the guest of Armenian President Serj Sarkisyan. Two presidents will
also use this occasion to discuss some important matters.

Criticizing the opposition of the Republican People’s Party (CHP)
and the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), Uras said the following:

"Racing to prove who the best nationalist is cannot be part of the
democratic mentality. Arguing for no-solution in the Armenian problem
will bring no peace to the region."