Turkey and Armenia, which do not have diplomatic relations, decided to initiate negotiations towards establishment of diplomatic relations and development of bilateral relations within the mediation of Switzerland. The protocol that isagreed by Turkey and Armenia gives countries six weeks before the soccer game between Turkish and Armenian national teams on October 14 in Bursa.
Acknowledge of parliaments of both countries are necessary for realization of the protocols which originally announced on April 22nd for the first time. It should be noted that the announcement of agreement on protocols between Turkey and Armenia is made just after the statements of Armenian President Serzh Sarksyan pointing that he will come to Turkey only if the borders between two countries are open or the countries are at the threshold of removal of blockade against Armenia.
Turkey and Armenia stressed that they will continue their efforts towards normalization of bilateral relations under Swiss mediation, and stated, “These two protocols presents a framework for normalization of bilateral relations within a reasonable time. Political consulatations will be completed in six weeks andfollowing thattwo protocols will be signed and presented for the approval of parliaments of both countries. Both sides will struggle for progress of approval process promptly and adequately.”
Turkey and Armenia are expected to make concurrent statements about the content of protocols.
According to the reports in mass media, the protocols include recognition of Turkey’s territorial integrity by Armenia. Therefore Armenia will recognize Turkish borders and give up its land claims over Turkey. Following the approval process, two countries will establish diplomatic relations. Diplomatic relations will be started from the lowest degree and opening of embassies will be considered afterwards.
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