ArmInfo. Normalization of relations with Turkey is very important for Armenia, Armenia's FM Ararat Mirzoyan stated on November 3 during discussions in the commissions of the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia on the draft state budget of the country for 2024.
According to him, the process of normalization of bilateral relations continues, and special representatives are working to solve this problem. Mirzoyan noted that he recently discussed this issue with the Turkish Foreign Minister in Tehran. "I have cautious optimism regarding the implementation of at least previously reached agreements, namely, the possibility of crossing borders for citizens with diplomatic passports," Mirzoyan said, adding that there will be good news on this agreement in the near future.
Mirzoyan emphasized that Armenia is interested in having at least settled relations with all four neighbors. Armenia has very close relations with two of these four states - Georgia and Iran, with which there are programs, some of which are being implemented, others are in the process of being developed.
The minister also spoke about relations with friendly France; mutual visits are taking place at the highest level.
Yerevan will continue to deepen relations with the European Union. The minister especially pointed out the importance of the civilian observation mission, which monitors the situation on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border. The parties are identifying new platforms and new areas of cooperation with the EU, for example, within the framework of political dialogue on the implementation of agreements under the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement. In this regard, the minister highlighted the ongoing process of visa liberalization.
As Mirzoyan emphasized, next year work will continue to develop relations with traditional partners - the United States and Russia. Armenia has numerous ties with the latter, despite the recent emergence of a number of problems. "We are not satisfied with bilateral relations on many issues, we are surprised by a number of them, and the Russian side has its own complaints, which are often manifested in the media," the minister said.