The ARF Student Union criticized the Armenian authorities` intention to initiate an exchange program between Armenian and Turkish students

ArmInfo. The Armenian authorities' intention to initiate an exchange program between Armenian and Turkish students raises serious concerns, according to a statement from the ARF student union "Nikol Aghbalyan."

"In the context of Turkey's denial of the Armenian Genocide, as well as its support for Azerbaijan's aggressive policies towards Armenia and Artsakh, the authorities are obliged to clearly outline the goals, conditions, and expected results of the program.

We are not against dialogue and academic cooperation between peoples, but such initiatives must be based on reciprocity, equality, transparency, and the protection of national interests. Armenian youth cannot be turned into a propaganda tool in foreign policy. Our history is not a subject of bargaining. Neither is our national dignity," the statement reads. In this regard, the youth union demanded that the Armenian authorities publish the full content of the program and the terms of its implementation, present the Turkish side's commitments and expected results for Armenia, and exclude any cooperation that contributes to the downplaying of the Armenian Genocide, the distortion of historical memory, or the subordination of national interests.

Earlier, Deputy Speaker of the Armenian Parliament Vahagn Aleksanyan announced on Armenian Public Television that Armenia and Turkey had reached an agreement regarding the academic exchange of students.