YEREVAN (AA) - Turkish Justice and Development Party (AKP) deputy from Balikesir Dr. Turhan Comez said that new initiative should be launched in regard to so-called Armenian genocide, adding that Armenia should give up its genocide allegations.
Comez, continuing his tour of Yerevan, had a meeting with Armenian deputy Hacat Sukyasyan.
Comez and Sukyasyan exchanged views on development of relations between Turkey and Armenia.
''There had been sufferings in 1915. Many Ottomans lost their lives... Armenian people also died. The two countries should carry out a joint study. When I deliver a speech at the Turkish Parliament for opening of Armenian border gate, at the same time you can deliver a speech at your parliament saying that incidents happened in 1915 were not genocide; that historians should study these issues and that Armenia should respect the territorial integrity of Turkey. Maybe, it is a small step, but it will be an important beginning,'' Comez told Sukyasyan.
Sukyasyan noted that the two countries should leave aside problems between them, stating that border gate should be opened by Turkey and Armenia.
Stressing that after border gate was opened, the two countries would further improve, Sukyasyan added that Turkey and Armenia should further develop the region together.
2005-06-11