[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 155 (2009), Part 16]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 22318]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




         NORMALIZATION OF RELATIONS BETWEEN TURKEY AND ARMENIA

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 22, 2009

  Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, on August 31, 2009, the 
Republic of Turkey and the Republic of Armenia announced their 
intention to normalize relations. The leaders of these two countries, 
working together with the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, 
have agreed to begin discussions that will culminate in the signing of 
two protocols within the next six weeks. The protocols will then be 
submitted to the respective Parliaments for ratification on each side. 
These two protocols provide for a framework for the normalization of 
relations, including the establishment of diplomatic relations and 
opening of the common border.
  This development has significant implications not only for Turkey and 
Armenia, but for the entire Caucasus region, which has had a turbulent 
and sometimes troubled history. The successful efforts of Turkey and 
Armenia to open borders, develop trade relations and other economic 
benefits, and create a long-lasting dialogue will serve to promote 
peace and stability throughout the region. I believe that we all should 
welcome this development and strongly support it.
  Madam Speaker, I applaud the leadership of Turkey and Armenia and 
encourage these two nations to work diligently in the weeks ahead to 
create a framework that will advance peaceful and fruitful relations 
for many years to come.

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