Establishment RA-Turkey diplomatic relations will prepare ground for new relations in the region

PanARMENIAN.Net - Establishment of diplomatic relations between Armenia and Turkey will prepare the ground for new relations in the region, newly appointed Germany's Ambassador to Armenia Hans-Jochen Schmidt said in an interview with PanARMENIAN.Net According to him, open borders will stimulate RA trade and economic policy. Establishing neighborly relations with Turkey, Armenia will obtain new trade routes.



"It's hard for Armenians to forget the past but it's politically important to normalize relations with neighbors, like Germany, France and Poland did," the Ambassador noted.



When asked if the opening of the Armenian-Turkish border and establishment of diplomatic relations between Armenia and Turkey promote Turkey's accession to EU, Hans-Jochen Schmidt replied, "Without making predictions about the impact of the border opening on Turkey's accession to the EU, I would like to note that it is in the interests of the EU that Turkey takes steps to establish stability in the South Caucasus and improves relations with the countries of the region."

"It is essential for Turkey during the forthcoming talks to raise its rating, making positive steps towards addressing issues of Armenian-Turkish relations, proving its responsibility for regional security and compliance of solutions to balanced relations. 



I know that such relationships are possible, but I also understand the difficulties. I also wish good luck to Armenia and Turkey in the steps taken," Hans-Jochen Schmidt concluded.

Full text of the interview