Turkey, Armenia going to sign protocol on establishment of diplomatic relations

PanARMENIAN.Net - Turkey and Armenia are readying a protocol that marks commitment by both sides to establish diplomatic relations and set up committees on issues ranging from border management, customs, history and more, Hurriyet Daily News reported.



The remaining dilemma for Ankara is the proper timing of the announcement: before, during or after President Obama's visit.



The agreement envisages establishment of diplomatic outposts both in Yerevan and Ankara.



It's not clear yet, however, if the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) would stick to a Cabinet decision only to start to establish diplomatic relations with Armenia or bring the issue to Parliament. Another option is to pen an agreement to restore diplomatic ties with Armenia which would have to be ratified by Parliament. The reasons behind consideration for parliamentary approval are to minimize repercussions that may be triggered by opposition parties and to share the burden of this critical move, the source says.