Paylan Ready to Take Responsibility for Armenia-Turkey Relations Normalization

Kurdish-backed People's Democratic Party (HDP) member of parliament Garo Paylan addressed the new phase of normalization in Armenian-Turkish relations during a press conference in the Turkish parliament. He expressed the opinion that if there is political will and desire, the normalization of Turkey-Armenia relations could occur faster than expected.

Paylan stated that political figures from Turkey, Armenia, and Azerbaijan must take responsibility in this process. He emphasized that he, as a Turkish MP, is also ready to assume any responsibility.

The lawmaker characterized the statements of Turkey's Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu and Armenia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding the normalization of relations between the two countries as crucial and historic. He highlighted the importance of working on a roadmap for normalization.

Paylan mentioned that the existing prejudices between the two peoples and states can easily dissipate, as they have lived together for hundreds of years. He considered it a significant step that both Armenian and Turkish airlines are set to commence direct flights.

“I believe that the development of economic relations must necessarily follow. Therefore, it is essential to open the border,” emphasized Paylan, adding that diplomatic relations between the two countries should be established, with mutual embassies opened and ambassadors appointed.