In the process of normalization of relations, both Turkey and Armenia started to wait for the next step of the opposite party.
The process of rapprochement between Turkey and Armenia had stoped after signing the ’roadmap’ agreement and declaration of Ankara that is evaluating resolution of Nagorno-Karabakh conflict as a precondition for establishment of relations.
The process that started with visit of President Abdullah Gul to Armenian capital to watch the soccer game between Turkish, Armenian national teams, is under the pressure of upcoming return game. Armenian President Serzh Sarksyan states that Turkish border to Armenia should be opened for him to be able to come to the return game that will be played in October in Kayseri. If Armenian President Serzh Sarksyan cancels to come to watch the game in Turkey, stressing that concrete progress should be made, the process of normalization will be wounded, which is closely followed by United States.
The agreement that was signed by Turkey and Armenia in the mediation of Switzerland on April 22, suggesting determination of a roadmap towards normalization of relations. In that period, there was hope for establishment of diplomatic relations and opening of borders between two countries which is closed since 16 years.
Following the statements of Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan that points progress should be achieved in the process of resolution of Nagorno-Karabakh conflict for Turkey to make a concrete step for the normalization of Turkish-Armenian relations. The statements of Erdogan created disappointment in Yerevan and discontinuation started. Armenia continously states that it is Turkey who should make steps and gives the message that the ball is in Turkey’s yard.
On the other hand, there are important developments in the issue of Nagorno-Karabakh for which Ankara insists on progress in the process of resettlement of the dispute, for the sake of Turkish-Armenian normalization. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian President Serzh Sarksyan are expected to meet in Moscow to discuss resolution of the dispute. Experts states that the negotiations is in final stage.
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