Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan Holds Meeting with Armenian Counterpart
Armenian and Turkish Foreign Ministers Discuss Bilateral Relations in Antalya
During the ongoing 4th Antalya Diplomatic Forum in Turkey, Armenian Foreign Minister Mirzoyan and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met to discuss bilateral relations and regional issues. The meeting, which took place at the Nest Congress Center in the Belek Tourism Region, addressed various agenda items between Turkey and Armenia, including the use of airspace and the Gyum-Kars Railway.
Mirzoyan highlighted that while some progress has been made on certain issues, such as agreements regarding third-country citizens and diplomatic passports, there are still challenges to overcome. Specifically, the agreement to open the border between Armenia and Turkey has yet to be implemented.
Both ministers emphasized their commitment to normalizing relations between their countries, including the establishment of diplomatic ties and the opening of borders. They also discussed potential trade, energy, and transit projects that could benefit both nations.
Regarding the peace agreement negotiated between Azerbaijan and Armenia, Mirzoyan expressed readiness to sign the agreement, which he described as historic and unique. He called for the abolition of the European Organization for Security and Cooperation (OSCE) Minsk Group, stating that it would no longer be needed once the conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia is resolved.
Mirzoyan stressed the importance of recognizing the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan in any peace agreement, and he noted that this issue will be included in the final agreement between the parties. He also mentioned that after signing a peace agreement with Azerbaijan, Armenia would no longer require the presence of the European Union Observation Mission.
Overall, the meeting between the Armenian and Turkish Foreign Ministers in Antalya signals a potential step towards improved relations and cooperation between the two countries, as well as a resolution to longstanding regional conflicts.
