Armenian Deputy FM: "Opening Armenian-Turkish borders to benefit economies"

The Armenian diplomat spoke at an international conference devoted to the economic and social consequences for opening the Armenian-Turkish border on Saturday. The forum is organised by a public organisation "Armenian Economic Research Group," which was founded by young economists from Armenia, the United States and other countries.

"The opening of the border will have a positive impact on regional cooperation in the South Caucasus," the diplomat said.

Due to the closedness of borders, the absence of diplomatic and consular relations contacts between Armenia and Turkey "are being held via air service or the territory of third countries," he said.

"In fact, Turkey seeks to express solidarity with Azerbaijan and develop regional cooperation in order to strengthen mutual trust," the diplomat pointed out.

He said Armenia calls for establishing diplomatic relations with Turkey without any preconditions.

"In order to ensure stability and security, and develop broad cooperation in the region it is necessary for Turkey to have unbiased equal relations with all states of the South Caucasus and give up its policy towards forcing Armenia out of regional programmes, including economic ones," Kirakosyan said. Itar-Tass