Rubinyan: we expect agreements with Turkey to be implemented

PanARMENIAN.Net - Armenia’s Deputy Speaker of Parliament and special envoy for Armenia-Turkey normalization, Ruben Rubinyan, stated in an interview with Turkey’s İhlas Haber Ajansı that Yerevan expects a full normalization of relations with Ankara, including the restoration of diplomatic ties and the reopening of the land border.

He noted that some steps have already been taken, such as the resumption of Yerevan-Istanbul flights and the start of air cargo trade between the two countries, Factor.am reported.

“There are still agreements we are working on, such as the restoration of a historic bridge at the border. However, the most significant agreement we have reached so far is the decision to open Armenia’s land border for third-country citizens and diplomatic passport holders. We did everything on our part to make this happen, including a complete renovation of the checkpoint. Now, we expect the Turkish side to fulfill its commitment, made three years ago. And we hope it will happen,” Rubinyan said.

Discussing the economic impact of reopening the border, he emphasized that it would create broad economic opportunities not only for Armenia but also for Turkey and other regional countries.

“I think there is a consensus that an open border is better than a closed one. This applies not only to trade but also to people-to-people contacts and many other areas. And this will undoubtedly benefit Armenia, Turkey, and all the countries in and beyond the region,” he stated.

Regarding the impact of Armenian-Turkish normalization on regional affairs, particularly relations with Azerbaijan, Rubinyan expressed confidence that progress in Armenia-Turkey ties would have a positive effect on the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace process.

Addressing Turkish citizens, Rubinyan emphasized: “I believe the Armenian and Turkish people deserve to see normal relations between our countries. Our border should be a symbol of cooperation, not division. This is in the interests of both Armenia and Turkey.”

Turkish journalists recently visited Armenia, where they interviewed Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. They also toured the Margara border checkpoint, which is fully operational on the Armenian side.