The process of normalizing relations between Armenia and Turkey will also soon bring positive results: Sargis Khandanyan

Sargis Khandanyan, Chairman of the Standing Committee on Foreign Relations of the National Assembly of Armenia, published on his Facebook page his speech at the session titled "Bridging Perspectives: Strengthening Dialogue, Mediation and Confidence in an Era of Uncertainty" of the 23rd Autumn Session of the OSCE PA, which is taking place in Istanbul, where he wrote in particular:

"Madam President,

First of all, I would like to thank the Turkish delegation for hosting us in Istanbul and congratulate them on the excellent organization of the 23rd autumn session.

Dear partners,

During our previous sessions, we have expressed hope and cautious optimism that Armenia and Azerbaijan are on the verge of achieving peace. Today, for the first time in the history of this Parliamentary Assembly, I have the honour to announce with joy that peace has been established between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

The historic peace declaration signed in Washington on August 8 is a strong and real commitment by both countries to advance the peace process and finally close the page on the conflict. We appreciate the important role of the United States and the leadership of President Trump, who has truly made the topic of our discussion today a reality.

The Washington statement lays a solid foundation for a new era of cooperation and development of relations, based on respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the inviolability of borders.

It also serves as a basis for moving forward to resolve all remaining issues, including the signing and ratification of the peace agreement between our two countries, which was initialed during the Washington Summit.

Our discussions on opening regional communications have now become more than practical, including steps towards the implementation of the TRIPP route, within the framework of Armenia’s “Crossroads of Peace” initiative. This route will benefit not only the South Caucasus region, but will also have global significance, connecting Central Asia to Europe.

The path ahead requires patience and care from us to build mutual trust. An important step in building trust was the closure of the OSCE Minsk Process and related structures, based on a joint application by Armenia and Azerbaijan.

And finally, being here in Turkey, I cannot help but express my optimism that the process of normalizing relations between Armenia and Turkey will also soon bring positive results. The constructive and active political dialogue currently underway gives us hope that it will soon turn into the institutionalization of our relations, the opening of borders, and broader cooperation.

Thank you.