[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 172 (Thursday, November 19, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2829]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     CONGRATULATING TURKEY AND ARMENIA FOR THEIR STEPS TOWARS PEACE

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                            HON. DAN BURTON

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 19, 2009

  Mr. BURTON of Indiana. Madam Speaker, last month in Zurich, 
Switzerland, with the strong support of the United States, the foreign 
ministers of Turkey and Armenia took an unprecedented step forward in 
their efforts to overcome decades of animosity and distrust between 
their two countries.
  Almost before the ink was dry special interest groups in both 
countries and abroad who profit from the status quo were attacking the 
deal which means that there are still immense hurdle left before Turkey 
and Armenia full normalize diplomatic and bilateral relations. 
Nevertheless, the two protocols offering a ``road map'' signed on 
October 10, 2009, is the right course of action for both countries. The 
process is very fragile, but enjoys the support of the international 
community.
  The protocols have been submitted to the Turkish and Armenian 
parliaments for debate and ratification. The stage is now set for the 
two parliaments to both deliberate the contents of and hopefully pass 
the protocols. It will not be an easy vote but the political, economic 
and international benefits for both sides are enormous; that is if 
Turks and Armenians are willing to take the chance for real peace; and 
willing to give up business as usual.
  For years I have come to this Floor advocating that issues concerning 
Turkey and Armenia should be resolved at the negotiating table by the 
two countries in question. I urge my colleagues to strongly support 
this process.

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