ArmInfo.Normalization of relations between Yerevan and Ankara would facilitate the improvement of regional environment, confidence and good-neighborly relations, Maria Zakharova, Spokesperson for the Russian foreign office, told a news briefing on Thursday.
Russia has made repeated comments on the issue. "Historically, we have done much as a state really wishing improved relations between the two nations," she said.
The appointment of special representatives is a logical step toward normalizing the bilateral relations, the Russian official added.
"Russia has repeatedly stated its willingness to play its role in this settlement as a mediator. It pledged its support to possible mediation, including that is establishment of such contacts," Mrs Zakharova said. Turkish FM Mevlut Cavusoglu stated recently that Ankara and Yerevan intended to appoint special representatives to discuss steps toward rapprochement between the two states. He also announced the resumption of Istanbul-Yerevan charter flights. The Turkish FM stated that Ankara would act in coordination with Azerbaijan in normalizing its relations with Armenia.
Official Yerevan welcomed the Turkish FM`s statement. Vahan Hunanyan, Spokesman for Armenia`s foreign office, stated: "Armenia, both in the past and now, is ready for normalizing its relations with Turkey without preconditions, which is incorporated in the Armenian government`s programme. In this context, we welcome the Turkish foreign minister`s statement on the appointment of a special representative for normalization of relations. The Armenian side reaffirms it will appoint a special representative to conduct this dialogue," he said.
On December 18, Vahan Hunanyan reported that Ruben Rubinyan, Vice-President of the RA National Assembly, had been appointed Armenia`s special representative to the negotiations with Turkey. Turkey will be represented by Serdar Kilic, a professional diplomat and ex-ambassador of Turkey to the United Sates.
Turkish FM Mevlut Cavusoglu stated on December 27 that the special representatives would hold their first meeting in Moscow.