Armenian Genocide Recognition Not Historical But Political Issue

In today's Europe the fact of the Armenian Genocide recognition has a political basis. Turkey's membership in the EU depends on the importance the European states attach to this issue. Turkey should face with the fact that it cannot become a full EU member that without political resolution of this issue. As for the statements made by Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who assures that this country doesn't aspire to Europe, this is nothing else but bluff. Turkey is not ready to join Europe and tries to insist on its own terms to make things look as if Europe joins Turkey but not vice versa.

One should see the difference between the state and the people. The U.S. wishes to see Turkey as an EU member, however the Armenian lobby launched a successful counteraction. For example the French public is not willing to have Turkey in the EU. In general, the European Union is a heterogeneous organization. Each state proceeds from its own aims and it's natural. Turkey for its part establishes relations with each state individually and can enlist their support.

The visit of French President Jacques Chirac to Armenia is a friendly and political step though not quite mediate. The conduction of the Year of Armenia in France is a significant event. The task of the Armenian community of France is to convey the importance of the Armenian Genocide recognition to the French society via historians and public figures. Moreover we suppose that the French parliament will discuss the bill providing for criminal punishment for the Armenian Genocide denial.

Chirac's visit is also important for the further development of the Armenian-French relations and expansion of activities of the Armenian community.

As for the Armenia-EU program, I am convinced in the efficiency of its realization. Europe is a link for Armenia's communication with the world. Successfully cooperating with Russia and the United States, Armenia can gain one more partner. It's very important, especially if the European model is applied to the Armenian economy, civic society, human rights protection and culture.
The settlement of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict demands time to let Armenia determine the notion of security for the people of RA and NKR. Armenia's position should be tough and fundamental. The settlement of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict demands time to let Armenia determine the notion of security for the people of RA and NKR and understand what we can expect if we return just a single region that forms the NKR security belt. In this view the responsibility lies on the Armenian authorities, who should realize every step undertaken for the conflict.

The programs for agriculture development proposed at the Third Armenia-Diaspora Forum should be understandable for Diaspora, which must be sure that the funds allocated will be properly spent. Absolute trust should be achieved between Armenia and Diaspora. This is very important. Moreover, Armenia should understand that Diaspora isn't in debt to anyone and all we need is to work jointly. Armenian entrepreneurs should invest in the development of their country, especially in the rural areas. Otherwise, the Forum will not justify the hopes of the initiators and Diaspora.