Both sides committed to full normalization with Türkiye: Armenian FM Mirzoya

Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan stated that both Türkiye and Armenia share a mutual understanding that the ultimate goal of their ongoing talks is the “full normalization of relations, including the establishment of diplomatic ties and the reopening of borders.”

Speaking to journalists at his hotel during the 2025 Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Mirzoyan confirmed that he had met with Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to discuss bilateral relations and regional developments.

Concrete steps on airspace, border crossings

Mirzoyan noted that progress had been made on practical matters, including airspace usage.

He added that experts from both countries have been assessing the Alican-Margara border crossing and the Gumri-Kars railway connection.

However, he also acknowledged that some agreements remain unimplemented. “We had agreed to open the border for third-country nationals and holders of diplomatic passports from both Armenia and Türkiye. Unfortunately, this agreement has yet to be enacted,” he said.

Trade, energy on normalization agenda

Elaborating on the content of his discussions with Fidan, Mirzoyan emphasized that normalization involves more than just political diplomacy.

“Our dialogue is not limited to the establishment of diplomatic relations and the official reopening of the border. It also involves substantial trade between the two countries. We also discussed potential joint energy and transit projects,” he said.

Mirzoyan pointed out that cooperation on international platforms was also raised during the talks. “When it comes to issues like the Middle East, the facts show that our views and perceptions are sometimes closer than expected,” he added.

Peace talks with Azerbaijan moving forward

Mirzoyan also addressed questions about the ongoing peace negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan. He described the draft peace agreement as “historic and unprecedented” and asserted that Armenia is ready to sign.

Referring to Azerbaijan’s call for the dissolution of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Minsk Group as a precondition for the agreement, Mirzoyan remarked, “If there is no conflict, then there is no need for the Minsk Group.”

He said Armenia is willing to sign both the peace agreement and the document concerning the Minsk Group’s dissolution on the same day.

Responding to concerns over constitutional amendments in Armenia that Azerbaijan has requested to ensure guarantees on territorial integrity, Mirzoyan stated that the necessary assurances already exist.

He also confirmed that recognition of Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity would be included in the peace agreement.

Finally, Mirzoyan said Armenia would no longer require the presence of the European Union Monitoring Mission once a peace agreement is reached with Azerbaijan.

Fidan, Mirzoyan meet during Antalya Diplomacy Forum

The Turkish Foreign Ministry confirmed on social media that Minister Hakan Fidan met with Mirzoyan on the sidelines of the 4th Antalya Diplomacy Forum.

The two ministers discussed the bilateral agenda between Türkiye and Armenia and exchanged views on regional and international developments.