Armenia Seeks to Reopen Border with Türkiye, Establish Diplomatic Relations, Says Pashinyan
Pashinyan: Armenia Aims to Reopen Border with Türkiye and Establish Diplomatic Ties
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan announced that Armenia is actively pursuing the normalization of relations with Türkiye, including the reopening of their shared border and the formal establishment of diplomatic ties. Speaking at a press conference in Yerevan, Pashinyan described recent talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan as “open and sincere,” noting that the discussions addressed broader state-level cooperation, including infrastructure projects like the restoration of the historic Ani bridge.
Although no formal agreements were reached, Pashinyan emphasized a long-term approach to trust-building and public engagement. “These issues are complex, but I firmly believe we will get there,” he said. “Diplomatic relations will be established, and the border will open.”
The normalization push is part of Armenia’s broader geopolitical pivot. Pashinyan reaffirmed that Armenia is unlikely to rejoin the Russia-led CSTO military alliance, citing the bloc’s failure to support Armenia during times of crisis. “At this point, leaving [the CSTO] seems more likely than returning,” he stated.
During a separate visit to Brussels, the Armenian premier confirmed his country’s ambition to join the European Union. “Yes, Armenia wants to become an EU member,” Pashinyan said, pledging to continue democratic reforms under the EU-Armenia Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement.
The developments mark a significant shift in Armenia’s foreign policy, as it seeks to deepen ties with the West while pursuing reconciliation with its historic neighbor, Türkiye.
