September 13, 2010 - 11:17 AMT
Alexander Sotnichenko: outcomes of Turkish constitutional referendum positive for Armenia

The constitutional referendum in Turkey first of all meant to resolve the internal political tasks of the ruling party, a Russian expert said.

“Both Europe and Turkey understand that there won’t be any Turkish integration into the EU,” senior analyst at the Saint Petersburg Center for Middle East Studies Alexander Sotnichenko told a PanARMENIAN.Net reporter.

“Although joining the EU appears as a good reason to change the legislation and withstand political opponents, Ankara needs the EU less and less. Turkey is resolved to rebuild its Ottomans cultural and political system,” he said.

At that, Sotnichenko noted that the outcomes of the referendum are positive for Armenia. “Supporters of the constitutional amendments are not nationalists and stand for a peaceful dialogue with Yerevan. Surely, Genocide will not be acknowledged but this should not prevent opening of the border and establishment of economic ties,” Sotnichenko said.