October 9, 2009 - 17:14 AMT
Genocide recognition will become pointless after recognition of Turkey's borders
Recognition of the Armenian Genocide is directly linked to recognition of Turkey's present-day borders, former commander of NKR Defense army Samvel Babayan said.

"Genocide recognition will become pointless after recognition of Turkey's borders," he told a news conference on Friday. "Who will need Turkey's apologies if we do not get back our lands?"

The public will react strongly to the signature of protocols, according to Babayan.

"Although signature is a blunder, President Serzh Sargsyan views it as the only way to normalize relations," he said. "If this document conflicts with Armenia's national interests I will be among those demanding his resignation."

As to the President's Pan-Armenian tour, Babayan said the RA leader "should make conclusions, otherwise Armenia-Diaspora relations will split."