Turkish FM Davutoglu Vows to Continue Efforts to Normalize Relations with Armenia

Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu has pledged full normalization in ties with neighboring Armenia despite stalemate in diplomatic efforts to that effect, saying relations between the two countries will be better than ever.
Davutoglu, speaking at a conference at Harvard University, said his government aimed “zero problems” with neighbors and noted that this policy resulted in excellent relations with all countries around Turkey, except Armenia.
“Armenia is the only exception, but, one way or another, today or tomorrow, we will achieve this too,” Davutoglu told the conference on Tuesday. “Our relations with Armenia will not only return to normal. They will be better than ever. This is our political commitment.”
In his speech, Davutoglu reiterated that normalization in Turkish-Armenian relations depended on normalization in Armenia’s ties with Azerbaijan. “We want to work together with Armenia. But for this normalization to be sustainable, there should be a a new Caucasus built on the basis of respect for territorial integrity and peaceful coexistence and there should be normal relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan,” he said. “Armenia should be ready to make peace as well. It is now occupying 20 percent of the Azerbaijani land.” He also said his government made efforts to normalize relations with Armenia despite obstacles and political risks at home. He said the Turkish government would work to finalize the normalization process despite domestic political obstacles both in Turkey and Armenia.
Source “Today’s Zamman”