(MENAFN- AzerNews)
Rena Murshud read more “In 1991, the Turkish Republic was the first to recognize the
independence of Azerbaijan. Since 1991, joint relations have been
established between the two fraternal countries in various fields,
such as political, economic, energy, educational, medical and
tourism. First of all, relations between Türkiye and Azerbaijan are
based on a deep, strong and rooted law of brotherhood. These
relations are not similar to the relations established with other
states..."
This was told by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus
newspaper columnist, journalist Gokhan Guler in a comment for Azernews , while discussing Armenia's intention to
open its border with Turkiye.
The expert said that the Azerbaijani-Turkish friendship has a
rich and past history. As proof of this, not only Azerbaijan, but
the whole world witnessed this during the 44-day Patriotic War.
Besides, the pundit also opined on a matter behind Armenia's
deep intention to open borders with Türkiye, which are considered
neighboring states and in practice do not recognize the territorial
integrity of Azerbaijan. And for further information it is of note
that there are no diplomatic relations between Türkiye and Armenia,
the border between the two countries has been closed since 1993 at
the initiative of Ankara. In the summer months of this year, it is
planned to open the Armenian-Turkish border for citizens of third
countries. According to the Armenian press, the construction of the
"Margara" checkpoint, for which 28.3 million drams (about $72,000)
was allocated, should be completed in a short time.
According to Guler, despite Armenia's desire to open borders
with Türkiye, this issue will not happen until the normalisation of
relations is achieved between Azerbaijan and Armenia and of course,
Armenia respects and recognizes Azerbaijan's sovereign
territories.
“The Turkish side has repeatedly stressed that it intends to act
in accordance with the progress of the peace agreement between
Azerbaijan and Armenia. Accordingly, it is important to start
negotiations between the both countries.”
He also said that illegal armed groups of Armenians still exist
in the Karabakh region, and the separatist groups are making
efforts to strengthen them through armament.
Gokhan Guler also pointed the ongoing disputes over the Zangazur
corridor, which Armenia refuses to give an access to Azerbaijan's
Nakhchivan.
“I think the opening of the borders with both Turkiye and
Azerbaijan also depends on Armenia's the only kind decision to open
the Zangazur corridor. I am sure that if Armenia sincerely wants to
open borders with Türkiye should first consider these issues - to
open the Zangazur corridor, then open the borders with Azerbaijan
after the normalisations of relations,” he added.
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Follow Rena Murshud on Twitter: @r enatagiyeva