[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 155 (2009), Part 19]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 26320-26321]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




      SIGNING OF THE TURKEY/ARMENIA PROTOCOLS ON OCTOBER 10, 2009

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. MICHAEL E. McMAHON

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 29, 2009

  Mr. McMAHON. Madam Speaker, I rise with optimism about the latest 
progress towards normalization of relations between the Republics of 
Turkey and Armenia.
  On October 10, Foreign Ministers Ahmet Davutoglu of Turkey and Edward 
Nalbandian of Armenia signed a notable agreement, taking both countries 
a step closer to establishing full diplomatic relations, opening 
borders and greatly enhancing economic, political and cultural 
cooperation.
  These historic protocols are a critical measure that will bring about 
regional stability. There have been confidential talks for 
approximately a decade between the two nations, and this agreement is a 
testament to the willingness of Armenia and Turkey to look forward 
towards the common goal of open borders and normalization of relations. 
As a Member of NATO, and a frontline country bordering Iraq, Turkey is 
a critical ally of the United States. As we re-deploy our forces in 
Iraq, Turkey plays a key role. Turkey has been a major support of the 
new Iraqi government and plays a positive role of investment in Iraq 
and developing a civil society in Iraq. Closer relations between Turkey 
and Armenia will hopefully move Armenia into a more westward direction 
as this agreement will encourage Armenia to build trade and economic 
ties with its largest western neighbor.
  The interest of the international community was evident with the 
presence of the representatives from France, Russia, Switzerland, the 
European Union and the United States in Zurich at the signing ceremony. 
I am particularly proud of Secretary Clinton's tireless efforts to 
encourage both parties to reach agreement on the accords. The signing 
of the protocols has been a priority for President Obama, and Secretary 
Clinton's work on October 10th underscores the value of stability in 
the Caucasus region for the United States and the entire international 
community.
  The protocols must still be brought back to the respective 
parliaments and ratified, but we should acknowledge this significant 
progress and continue to encourage both Armenia and Turkey to work 
together to develop a long lasting diplomatic relationship and 
stability in the region.

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