President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan was interviewed by BBC reporter Gabriel Gatehouse. NEWS.am publishes the full interview, including the introductory note.

“Football diplomacy” notion appeared a year ago, when Turkish President Abdullah Gul visited Yerevan to watch Armenia-Turkey football match. It gave rise to optimism that Armenian-Turkish border will finally open and the countries will initiate the conciliatory process. However, Yerevan recently claims Ankara is freezing the negotiation process. Our reporter Gabriel Gatehouse questioned Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan on whether he would go to a return match in Turkey.

Serzh Sargsyan: There are two answers to this question. First — it is not essential whether I go or not. I mean, we cannot link Armenian-Turkish relations with a trip aimed to watch football. Let’s imagine at least two scenarios — we freeze the talks with Turkey and I go to the football match. Second — we resume the negotiations, but I do not go. What is more vital? If you ask this question amid our talks with Turkey, and whether we can reach any outcome, this will be my answer.

BBC: What sign do you expect form Ankara to unfreeze the talks?

Serzh Sargsyan: I have twice stated that I will go to the match if the border is open or is in the threshold of opening. The matter is whether Turkish side intends to complete our arrangements. I consider it right for the sides to meet their arrangements. Unfortunately, so far I have not seen the desire or aspiration to do so. Our wish is unchanged: to establish relations without preconditions.

BBC: Are you ready to make concessions on 1915 events and in the issue, whether Turkey recognizes them as Genocide?

Serzh Sargsyan: Certainly, it is extremely important — for our nation, for Turkey and the world on the whole. It’s crucial to rectify the historical justice, enabling both nations to establish normal relations. And eventually, it’s essential not have the precedents in the future. However, we do not regard Genocide recognition as a precondition for establishing relations between the countries.

BBC: Do you mean there can be a compromise?

Serzh Sargsyan: No, it cannot be called a compromise. This is not a compromise case. We state there was a Genocide regardless Turkey recognizes it today or not. The fact is recognized by all genocide experts of the world, including numerous countries. Under the present circumstances we do not admit Genocide recognition as a precondition for relations’ establishment with Turks.

BBC: Nevertheless this issue prevents the development of Armenian-Turkish relations. A person I talked to in Yerevan compared it with the following situation: while driving, you have to check blind spots and from time to time look into rear-view mirror. However, the most vital — is the road ahead. How precise this situation reflects the reality?

Serzh Sargsyan: Correct. I know what he means. He means we have to face the future, meanwhile having no right of being unmindful of the past.