YEREVAN (ArmRadio)—Armenian President Serzh Sarkisian met at the weekend with more than thirty representatives from various Armenian media outlets to present them with his administration’s position on the Armenia-Turkey protocols and the ongoing negotiations process between Yerevan and Ankara.
Speaking to the journalists, Sarkisian said he anticipates an open and sincere discussion on the current stage of the negotiations process. The president added that he attaches importance to the opinions of the journalists, who he described as individuals with an active political position and as people who shape public opinion.
He also stressed that his administration values civil society participation in the negotiations process, adding that the talks between Turkey and Armenia will need the support of both societies to continue.
During the two-hour discussion, the media representatives presented their opinions and remarks regarding the protocols, discussing the possible risks and concerns associated with them.
Sarkisian in response said: “Armenia has entered a hard but necessary process.” The President claimed the protocols were the first step towards the normalization of relations, which according to him, seek to create a platform for dialogue with Turkey that will allow for the discussion of economic and political to historical, and cultural issues.
Mr. President these so called protocals are treaties. Once they have been ratified, they will be subject of international law. Haveing dialogue does not required to sign off our natioanl security.