CAN ARMENIANS AND TURKS BE ON FRIENDLY TERMS?
Support A1+!Today the main theme of discussions in Armenia’s political circles is Turkey’s President Abdullah Gul’s upcoming visit to Armenia. A1+ tried to know our fellow-citizens opinion on Gul’s arrival.
“Turks have always been our enemies. They always hated us and felt disgust towards Armenians. What is the use of inviting them to Armenia today? Do we really need them?” said 69-year-old Knarik. Her grandfather was murdered by Turks in 1915.
In the main, old-age people agree with Grandma Knarik saying that Turkey will never be on good terms with Armenia.
“Turks are fraudulent people. No matter how much our president tries to reconcile the sides his efforts will surely fail doing harm to Armenia,” said 62-year-old Vardan.
Unlike elderly people youth welcome the authorities’ step. “They simply want to better the tense bilateral relations,” said 24-year-old Hasmik who wants to live in peace.
“Surely we should forget neither the Genocide nor its perpetrators. And yet, we shouldn’t allow our countries to speculate the matter for their good. Armenia and Turkey had better solve their problems with joint efforts,” said 20-year-old Hayk.
18-year-old Alina says her friends from Iran write to her every day and scold for the invitation. “They say they don’t live in Armenia because of the Turks.”
37-year-old Vigen doubts that Armenia and Turkey can ever reconcile.
“They instill hatred in Turkish children towards Armenians still in cradles. How can Turks love us?” wondered 37-year-old Vigen.
“The youth of the 21st century are against wars. We are ready to conciliate with Turks. We do believe that Turkish youth will agree with us,” said 19-year-old Laura.
