HISTORICAL MEETING IN TURKEY
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Turkey’ Parliament Speaker Bulent Arich has met Armenian MPs Mekhak Mkhitaryan from “Land of Law” Party and Vladimir Badalyan from “People’s Deputy” Group. This historical meeting took place in the framework of the 24th Assembly of member states of Black Sea Economic Cooperation. Assembly was held in Antalia City of Turkey on November 23-25.
Turkish Parliament Speaker expressed a wish to meet the delegations of all the states participating in the Assembly. Armenian MPs say their meeting with Speaker lasted more than scheduled. Almost all the issues – opening of the Armenian-Turkish frontier, recognition of Armenian Genocide, Karabakhi conflict, preservation of cultural wealth, interesting both parts were referred to during 30 minutes.
Though the Armenian-Turkish meetings passed in a quite cordial climate, however, the sides didn’t come to terms. Armenian MP Vladimir Badalyan is sure the Turks are not yet ready to cooperate with us. He drew the conclusion having watched the example that the Turks have no wish to protect 916 Armenian cultural values in the territory of Turkey in due course.
Turkish Parliament Speaker considers the demand of recognizing Armenian Genocide set by Armenia as an obstacle for cooperation. The Turkish official is sure there is a territorial issue in the context of the demand, which is not acceptable for Turkey. Nevertheless, Turkish Parliament Speaker has expressed regret for the “tragedy” in the beginning of the 20th century.
As to Karabakhi conflict, Bulent Arich voiced dissatisfaction with the activity of OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs, viewing it very inefficient. Our delegation members opposed the viewpoint asserting they see no other structure to work more productively.
