Erdoğan and Pashinyan Discuss Türkiye-Armenia Relations

Erdoğan and Pashinyan Discuss Türkiye-Armenia Normalization

President of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan discussed the process of normalizing relations between the two countries. The meeting took place in New York on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.

According to the Armenian Prime Minister's Office, the two leaders discussed the implementation of previously reached agreements and emphasized the importance of continuing the normalization process. They also discussed steps to strengthen trade and economic ties and contacts between business communities.

Trade, Business Ties and the Ani Bridge

The two sides stressed the need for continued efforts to develop trade and economic relations and strengthen connections between business communities in Türkiye and Armenia.

They also discussed the joint restoration of the historic Ani Bridge, located near the border between the two countries. The project was mentioned as part of broader efforts to develop bilateral relations.

The meeting focused on continuing the normalization process. No specific date for the establishment of diplomatic relations or the full opening of the border was announced.

Regional Connectivity and the TRIPP Project

Erdoğan and Pashinyan also discussed regional developments. The two sides noted the establishment of peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan and expressed the view that this could contribute to greater regional cooperation.

In this context, they emphasized the importance of implementing the TRIPP project and unblocking regional transport connections. The initiative is intended to improve regional connectivity and create new opportunities for trade and transportation.

Türkiye-Armenia Normalization Process

Despite sharing a border, Türkiye and Armenia do not currently have diplomatic relations. In 2021, the two countries appointed special representatives to advance the normalization process. Türkiye appointed former ambassador to the United States Serdar Kılıç, while Armenia appointed Deputy Speaker of Parliament Ruben Rubinyan.

The representatives have held talks on restoring transportation links, opening the border and developing contacts between citizens and businesses.

According to the Armenian side, during the September 23 meeting, Erdoğan and Pashinyan agreed on the importance of continuing systematic efforts to implement previous agreements and give new momentum to bilateral relations.

Further development of transportation and economic links could also affect broader cooperation across the South Caucasus, alongside relations between Türkiye and Armenia.

Source: Office of the Prime Minister of Armenia, Anadolu Agency.