July 20, 2009 - 20:01 AMT
Chance for Turkish-Armenian reconciliation not lost
There is no agreement on formation of commission of historians between Yerevan and Ankara, Armenian Foreign Minister said.

"Armenia and Turkey did not sign any agreement on normalization of bilateral relations. We have numerously stated that once the two countries reach a consensus, it will envisage opening of the border, establishment of diplomatic relations and formation of an intergovernmental commission to deal with various issues including confidence-building measures," Edward Nalbandian said at a joint news conference with his Swedish counterpart Carl Bildt.

"The chance to normalize relations is not lost. At that, Azerbaijan, being a part of the region, will also benefit by Turkish-Armenian reconciliation," he said.

For his part, Mr. Bildt said he is optimistic about the Armenian-Turkish reconciliation. "The EC welcomes the process. As to formation of commissions or other structures, these can be very useful," he said.

The Minister also said that pressure is not the best way to reach an agreement.