Pashinyan: Turkey backs Armenia-Azerbaijan treaty

PanARMENIAN.Net - In a meeting with Turkish journalists, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan addressed concerns about whether the absence of relations with Azerbaijan hinders the Armenia-Turkey normalization process. He stated that, based on Armenia's understanding, Turkey supports the signing of a treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Pashinyan disagreed with the notion that peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan is not on the horizon. He suggested that efforts are being made to obscure the visibility of peace, despite significant foundational steps already taken. He highlighted that both countries have agreed to recognize each other's territorial integrity and sovereignty based on the 1991 Alma-Ata Declaration. This agreement is reflected in the draft peace treaty, where both sides acknowledge having no territorial claims against each other and commit not to present such claims in the future.

However, Pashinyan expressed concerns about narratives like "Western Azerbaijan" and certain trials in Baku, which he believes aim to undermine the progress achieved in the peace process. He emphasized the importance of adhering to the agreements made and not destroying the progress achieved so far.

Regarding Armenia-Turkey relations, Pashinyan acknowledged the sensitivities in Turkey-Azerbaijan relations but noted ongoing processes between Armenia and Turkey. He mentioned instances such as Armenia's participation in the Antalya Diplomatic Forum and humanitarian aid provided to Turkey after a devastating earthquake. Pashinyan emphasized that any efforts contributing to the signing of the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty would be beneficial.

Separately, Akif Çağatay Kılıç, Chief Advisor to the Turkish President on Foreign Policy and Security, commented on Armenia-Azerbaijan and Armenia-Turkey relations. He reiterated Turkey's stance that Azerbaijan's security and territorial integrity are paramount. Kılıç stated that the peace treaty between Azerbaijan and Armenia would be the key to resolving many issues. He also noted that, under current circumstances, there are no prerequisites to discuss the opening of diplomatic missions between Turkey and Armenia.