Norway welcomes normalisation of relations between Armenia and Turkey

“I am pleased to note that Armenia and Turkey have agreed in principle to establish diplomatic ties and normalise their relations,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Jonas Gahr Støre in response to the news that the foreign ministers of the two countries have now signed protocols to this effect.

“These are neighbouring countries that have had a long history of difficult relations. They have now taken an important step towards normalising their relations.” 

In addition to the protocols agreed upon, agreement has been reached on a plan for practical measures to follow them up. The closed border between the countries is to be reopened, and a joint commission is to be established to examine the “historical dimension” of relations between the countries. The next step is to have the protocols ratified by the two countries’ parliaments. 

“This is an example of courageous leaders taking the initiative and breaking the cycle of conflicts and mistrust. I call on both countries’ elected representatives to show the same courage and wisdom, so that this agreement can be converted into practical policy as soon as possible, to the benefit of both countries and peoples, and the region as a whole. Another important point is that this agreement could be instrumental in promoting peaceful solutions to other unresolved conflicts in the region,” Mr Støre said.