Erdogan on Improving Relations with Armenia

Turkish President Erdogan stated in an interview with journalists that Turkey is ready to take further steps to improve relations with Armenia and to create a regional cooperation platform in the Caucasus, as long as Yerevan is determined to continue the normalization process initiated by the appointment of special representatives. This was reported by the Armenian Times, citing Dailysabah.

“As you know, I have already said that we will respond in the same way to the positive steps taken by Armenia. This region needs peace, stability, and prosperity. With this understanding, we made sincere efforts to start the normalization process between our country and Armenia. The President of Azerbaijan also considers this beneficial. We are pleased with Armenia’s willingness to normalize relations,” Erdogan said.

“We also know that Armenia has certain expectations, such as the opening of borders and the establishment of diplomatic relations. If Armenia is steadfast in continuing the process initiated by the appointment of special representatives, then there will be no question of keeping the doors closed for us,” he emphasized.

Highlighting Turkey's support for a regional cooperation platform and overcoming issues with Armenia through collaboration, Erdogan stated, “In this regard, the normalization process between Azerbaijan-Armenia relations and Turkey-Armenia relations can progress by supporting each other. Similarly, our idea of regional cooperation will support and nourish these bilateral processes. Everyone should act constructively to make good use of this historic opportunity,” the Turkish President added.

He emphasized once again that all processes will continue to be implemented in close coordination with Azerbaijan. The Turkish President also mentioned that he discussed the process of normalizing relations between Armenia and Turkey with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier.