TURKISH PRESIDENT OBSERVES HISTORICAL TURNING POINT IN RELATIONSHIP WITH ARMENIA

/PanARMENIAN.Net/
23.11.2009 16:25 GMT+04:00

/PanARMENIAN.Net/ Turkish President Abdullah Gul observes historical
turning point in relationship with Armenia. "Barrier will soon be
overcome" Italia La Stampa quotes him as saying. "After signing the
agreement in Bern we’ll need ‘technical’ time since the document needs
consideration by both countries’ parliaments. Thereafter ambassadors
will exchange instruments, which will be followed by border opening.

As to the air space, it has been open for a long time," Gul said.

At that he noted that higher level of democracy helps overcome
the taboos. President Gul stressed the importance of normalizing
ties with Armenia following 2008 war in Caucasus. "Frozen problems
cannot be resolved by further freezing. That’s the simplest thing –
there’s absolutely no risk, but the region is in need of stability and
cooperation. Armenia is also situated in that region. Any developments
there will have positive effect in many spheres," Turkish leader said.

Mr. Gul also agreed that Baku closely follows development of between
Ankara and Yerevan. The only problem, unresolved so far, is Karabakh
conflict, but Turkish preisdent believes it will soon find solution.

With regard to Western countries’ support to Armenian-Turkish thaw,
Turkish President particularly focused on Russia which also plays a
key role in normalization of Armenian-Azerbaijani ties.

Asked whether Turkey had really closed page on Armenian issue, Gul
said, "That’s our choice. We do everything within our power. But
others should have such intentions too."