There is a misconception that the turbulent historical past is the reason why Armenia and Turkey do not have diplomatic relations. But in fact, for all Armenian governments, history has not been the basis of the strategy to normalize relations. Ruben Rubinyan, deputy speaker of the National Assembly of Armenia the latter’s special representative for the normalization of relations with Turkey, stated this in his address at the Yerevan Dialogue 2024 international forum Tuesday.

"Armenia has always been open to normalizing of relations and [re]opening of borders [with Turkey]. We are ready now, too. If our Turkish neighbors show political will, we can have fully normalized relations tomorrow,” Rubinyan said.

As for communications, the South Caucasus is known for its closed borders. This applies to Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey, etc. I believe right now we have a historic opportunity to turn the South Caucasus from an impasse end into a crossroads, a crossroads of peace. Our [i.e. Armenia’s] position is that communications should not become captive to geopolitical competition, but as a way to change negative dynamics and build peace and cooperation," Rubinyan added.