FM Spokesperson on Reports of Turkey's Support to Armenia

The spokesperson for the Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Anna Naghdalyan, has clarified how the process of transporting Armenian citizens from Turkey to Armenia was organized despite the closed borders and lack of diplomatic relations. The spokesperson also commented on a press release issued by the Istanbul Patriarchate, stating that Turkey intends to provide support to Armenia in the fight against coronavirus.

Below are the questions posed by the Armenian News Agency 'Armenpress' and the responses from the FM spokesperson:

- It has become known that the transportation of our citizens from Turkey to Armenia has been organized. How was this process possible in the absence of open borders and diplomatic relations?

- You are aware that Armenia is taking all necessary measures to ensure the return of our citizens to Armenia, and priority is given to those in difficult situations in countries heavily affected by the pandemic. For this reason, it was decided to transport our citizens in Turkey who expressed a desire to return to Armenia.

It should be noted that around one hundred Armenian citizens in Turkey have contacted the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Through the efforts and funding of the Ministry, the transportation of seventy Armenian citizens wishing to return to Armenia via Georgia is being carried out. Upon their arrival in Armenia, they will be subject to a mandatory 14-day quarantine. The transfer has been coordinated with the relevant Turkish and Georgian authorities, whose assistance is appreciated.

- In the press release issued by the Istanbul Patriarchate, it is mentioned that Turkey plans to provide support to Armenia in the fight against coronavirus.

- We are familiar with the press release regarding the telephone conversation between the Patriarchate of Constantinople and the President of Turkey. As a third party, we would refrain from commenting on unofficial information. In any case, such an issue is not on the agenda.