In the course of his official trip to Italy, Armenia’s President Serzh Sargsyan gave an interview to the largest Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera. The complete translation of the article is presented below:

“If the international community had given a joint response to the Armenian Genocide, 20th century would be quite different. Perhaps today we wouldn’t have to speak about what is happening to the Christian minorities in the Middle East.

It is well-known that Hitler first expressed his intentions about the Holocaust of the Jews in 1939 by the statement: “Who, after all, speaks today of the annihilation of the Armenians?” We tend to downplay the lessons of the 20th century. Interests prevail over values way too often, otherwise strict denouncement and effective pre-emption would have followed. 

April 24 marks the 100th anniversary since the beginning of the Armenian Genocide in the Ottoman Empire. Yerevan is getting ready for the commemoration events urging the whole world to follow suit. During his official trip to Italy Armenia’s President Serzh Sargsyan gave an interview on this to the largest Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera.  

Our message on the Genocide Centenary is aimed at preventing genocides. This way we call to all political efforts of the international community, and we have a moral right to do this. Prevention and condemnation of these crimes must not be sacrificed to geopolitical interests. The 20th century gives vivid lessons on what may happen in case of the absence of what we are asking. Unfortunately, I’m afraid the age of genocides isn’t finished. In the Middle East – where ethnic and religious minorities have become the target – we contribute to the birth of a genocide. We have neared a moment when joint actions are required. 

Why is it still so difficult to reach consensus on the past events after 100 years? Why do we see prevarications and silence, and not only in Turkey?

The historical credibility of the Armenian Genocide doesn’t leave any doubt. Back in 1919, the Turkish court-martial convicted the perpetrators of the Armenian Genocide for crimes against humanity. Even Ankara acknowledges the murders of the Armenian civil population. Several states call it Genocide, others label it “massacres,” while for still others it is yet a tragedy. As to the other countries, absence of their recognition is conditioned by their common interests with Turkey. 

The relations between Armenia and Italy have become very positive. During the last 4 years the commercial turnover between the two countries has actually doubled, reaching 127-214 million dollars. What can we expect in the future?

Our countries are linked by significant interests, but, more importantly, by joint acceptance of universal values. We have been in diplomatic relations for only 24 years, but our ties are rooted in millenary intertwining. In commercial relations with Rome we proceed with what already existed long ago. I believe that the next doubling of the commercial turnover is not very far due to the brilliant development of business environment in terms of exemptions and opportunities for foreign companies. 

During a strong tension between Western Europe and Russian Federation, Armenia is standing apart. Since 1 January, you have joined the Eurasian Economic Union together with Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan. But at the same time you are at an advanced stage of talks with EU on the Association Agreement – how do you combine both of this? Can Armenia become a model for Ukraine, where the crisis emerged as a result of the conflict between two development scenarios?

Armenian economy has been closely linked with the countries of former USSR for ages. Our largest commercial partner is Russia, where the significant part of our export finds its place in the market. On the other hand, we lack power resources and import gas and petroleum products from the Russian Federation. By joining the EEU, we got very favorable prices for energy sources. Our decision was logical and rational.

As to our relations with EU, its contribution is invaluable in the field of ongoing democratic reforms in our country. Thus, our choice is grounded on the combination of interests and values. We are pragmatic.