Day.Az interview with head of Center for Culture and Solidarity of Azerbaijan in Manisa, Turkey Seyfaddin Ayakai, who is of Azerbaijani origin.

Q: What do you think about the protocols that aim to normalize diplomatic relations between Turkey and Armenia? What is your attitude towards the protocols?

A: We have extremely negative attitude towards them and they are not acceptable for us. There are open doors for Armenians neither in our heart nor in our land.

Q: Do all Azerbaijanis in Turkey unanimously share your views? What is the attitude of Turkish people towards the protocols?

A: Stance of Azerbaijanis who live in Turkey does not differ from the that of Azerbaijanis who live in Azerbaijan Republic. Opening of Turkish-Armenian border and establishing diplomatic relations will be considered a betrayal to homeland and its people till Azerbaijan's Armenia-occupied lands are freed and Armenians give up claims of recognition of the so-called “genocide.” No patriot in Turkey will accept it.

Q: Have the organization you lead staged any protest action or public event on this issue?

A: The most recent event, at which we expressed our attitude to ongoing processes, was an event dedicated to the 90th anniversary of political relations between Turkey and Azerbaijan.

Q: Will the Turkish parliament ratify the protocols before the Armenia liberates Azerbaijan's occupied lands or not?

A: Turkish-Armenian border will not open until the Karabakh problem is resolved. The Turkish president, prime minister and other senior officials have reiterated this on numerous occasions. I believe that these statements have become historical and it would be very wrong to decide something against them. Moreover, such a solution would be a black stain in Turkey’s history. Turkish people will not accept parliament's decision to ratify Armenia-Turkey protocols if it happens.