The opening of Van-Yerevan-Van direct flight aims to boost tourism, promote pilgrimage to the Western Armenia and develop business ties, a Turkologist said.

As Andranik Ispiryan told a PanARMENIAN.Net, the launch of the flight is unlikely to affect Ankara's stance on rapprochement with Armenia. However, he didn't preclude for Turkish tourists' visits to break some old stereotypes.

Commenting on the response of Azerbaijan which accused Ankara of "betraying relations with Baku and failing to consider Azeri interests in Karabakh issue," Ispiryan characterized Azeri reaction as common.

"Azeri hysterics prompted Ankara's remark, assuring Baku of being its best friend where Karabakh settlement is concerned," the expert said.