YEREVAN — Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan has suggested that the border between Armenia and Turkey could reopen before the two countries appoint new special envoys to continue the normalization process.
Mirzoyan made the remarks following a meeting with Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis, who serves as the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, while responding to a question about the possible appointment of a new Armenian special envoy for negotiations with Turkey.
The Foreign Minister emphasized that the ultimate objective of the normalization process remains the full restoration of diplomatic relations and the complete reopening of the Armenia-Turkey border.
“Frankly, the question is whether there is even a need for new special envoys. It is possible that the border could reopen before the two sides agree on new appointments,” Mirzoyan said.
According to the minister, negotiations have reached an advanced stage, making comprehensive normalization possible at any time.
“The Armenia-Turkey normalization process has matured to such an extent that a final and comprehensive settlement could be achieved on any given day. Armenia and Turkey are in almost daily contact, and negotiations are continuing,” he stated.
Mirzoyan explained that diplomatic negotiations are generally not disclosed in full until concrete agreements have been reached, adding that the Armenia-Turkey talks are no exception.
He also announced plans to organize another Armenian-Turkish business forum in Armenia, potentially on a larger scale than the previous gathering.
“I hope that this time, too, the closed border will open and Armenian businesspeople will be able to cross it,” Mirzoyan said.
While acknowledging that the normalization process has already produced certain agreements and practical results, the Foreign Minister stressed that full normalization has not yet been achieved.
His remarks reflect Yerevan’s expectation that continued diplomatic engagement and economic cooperation could help accelerate the restoration of relations between the two neighboring countries.
