Turkish FM: Normalization with Armenia inseparable from issues between Azerbaijan and Armenia

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said that the process regarding normalization of relations between Turkey and Armenia is not separable from the issues between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

Responding to questions in a live broadcast, he said:

"We are taking steps to establish permanent peace in the South Caucasus after the victory of Azerbaijan. Importants steps have been taken, including decision to launch flights, and for the improvement of trade relations. It would not be a realistic approach to view this process separable from the process carried out by Azerbaijan and Armenia. Permanent peace in the South Caucasus can be achieved only through a comprehensive, lasting peace treaty to be signed by Armenia and Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan made a proposal, but Armenia has not responded to it."

He continued:

"And then there is the issue of the Zangezur corridor. Armenia gets upset when the issue is brought up. Do you really want peace or not? It was a territory that you invaded. They act as if Azerbaijan took over Armenian territories. Armenia was to withdraw following the beginning of the peacekeeping mission. It's been two years and there are still Armenian troops in the area. Azerbaijan built a raod parallel to Lachin, and the peacekeeping troops will be deployed around it."

Cavusoglu added:

"Everybody is witness to our sincerity in our efforts to normalize relations with Armenia. But Armenia should know and accept that we are one with Azerbaijan. Neither should anyone have any doubts about our positive approach. We want to have peace."