Turkish State Minister & Chief Negotiator for EU Egemen Bagis has said that Turkey and Armenia have a chance to cooperate “to prevent people, nations and countries from suffering more in the future.”

According to the Anatolian News Agency, during a meeting with a delegation of Turkish, Armenian and U.S. journalists in Ankara on Tuesday, June 21, Bagis said that both Turkish and Armenian peoples “suffered in the past, however, the history cannot be changed.”

Noting that Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan and Turkish President Abdullah Gul “have taken brave steps,” Bagis said that it is necessary to pursue the process.

Commenting on the Karabakh conflict resolution, he said, “We want permanent solution between Armenia and Azerbaijan, what is in the interests of all countries of the region.”

Asked when the border between Turkey and Armenia could be opened, Bagis said “it will be opened one day after Armenia and Azerbaijan shake hands.”