Armenian opposition urges dialogue with Ankara, Baku

"Given the huge benefits Azerbaijani energy supplies and Turkish investments would have for Armenia's economy, normalizing our ties with these two countries – with which we have no diplomatic relations – would be crucial for us and the entire region," Baghdasaryan wrote in an article published in The Wall Street Journal on Wednesday.

He complained that much of Armenia's establishment remains trapped in the past and, "…Dwelling on sad memories hampers our relationship with our neighbors, chiefly Turkey and Azerbaijan. This cannot be conducive to peace, stability and long-term prosperity."

More than a decade ago, when Armenian troops began occupying the Azerbaijani territory of Nagorno-Karabakh, Turkey closed their border to Armenia and also severed diplomatic relations with the country.

In comments regarding the disputed region of Nagorno Karabakh, Baghdasaryan said that the persistence of this issue dilutes the strategic value of Armenia as well as the entire region.

"We have a common interest in ensuring that our region can capitalize on its geopolitical position and become the link between Eastern European and Central Asian markets. The only durable solution is a negotiated settlement which will require compromises on both sides," he added.

/Turkish Daily News/