Genocide Recognition Issue not Dominating in Armenia-Turkey Relations

"I have always said and I will say that the Genocide issue is not dominant in Armenia-Turkey relations," Armenian Foreign Minister Vartan Oskanian said in an interview with the Turkish "New Anatolian" periodical.

IN the Minister's words, the recognition of the Armenian Genocide is not a precondition for the establishment of bilateral relations. "The recognition of the Armenian Genocide is a moral responsibility, but is should not become an obstacle in the improvement of relations between the two countries. Since the Armenian side does not present the recognition of the Armenian Genocide as precondition, Turkey should not require Armenia to refuse from demands on the issue," the Minister added.

According to Vartan Oskanian, neither Turkey not Armenia should present preconditions. "We carry out the policy of Genocide recognition, Turkey is implementing denialist policy. I really see no reasons, which would prevent opening of the border and cooperation of the peoples. It would create more favorable conditions for more constructive resolution of existing questions," the Foreign Minister underlined.

By Armenian Public Radio