Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan says there are certain positive signals from Turkey regarding the normalization of bilateral ties, though concrete outcomes are still pending.
Speaking to journalists after a cabinet session, Pashinyan stated that normalizing relations with Turkey is important and that developments are underway, noting the time is ripe for progress, 1lurer.am reports.
“I hope these developments will happen. At the very least, the agreements reached back in 2022 should become reality. We're taking steps in Akhuryan and Margara so that if decisions are made, we’re not unprepared on our side,” he said.
While he refrained from disclosing specifics, the prime minister acknowledged ongoing diplomatic activity. “We are getting some signals, certain positive signs from Turkey, but let’s see,” he said.
Pashinyan reminded reporters that the Margara border checkpoint is technically ready, but once the border opens, further infrastructure upgrades will be needed.
“We must understand that the existing bridge won’t be sufficient after the border opens. We’ll have to consider building new bridges, both in Margara and Akhuryan, in Shirak and Armavir provinces. But that’s a task for the future,” he added.
He also referenced the historical Ani bridge, stating that an agreement on its restoration is in place and discussions are ongoing.
“Of course, the matter will become more concrete once the border opens and is used, although today we already have an agreement to restore the historic Ani bridge. Discussions are underway, and it’s possible that practical steps could start soon. It carries symbolic importance,” Pashinyan said.
Yerevan and Ankara issued a joint statement in December 2021 expressing willingness to normalize relations. In 2022, representatives from both countries agreed in Vienna to open the border to third-country nationals and launch direct cargo flights. However, implementation has yet to follow. In September 2025, Turkey’s Serdar Kılıç visited Armenia. The Armenian Foreign Ministry later confirmed that both sides had agreed to accelerate implementation of the July 2022 agreements.
