Turkey should invite Garegin II to Surb Khach and open the border gate for him: Amberin Zaman

In a recent article Amberin Zaman, a Turkish analyst who writes for famous British magazine The Economist and local Turkish newspaper Haberturk, suggests that Turkey take a few things to prevent the Armenia-Turkey normalization from ultimate failure.

"Instability and the probability of war are growing in the region. That is to say, despite how much the leaders will insist the contrary, the status quo runs against Azerbaijan. Well, what steps can Ankara, which says that the [Armenia-Turkey] Protocols cannot be ratified in the parliament prior to elections, take? Here are some that can contribute to the improvement of trust:

1. Buy electricity from Armenia. In no war is this agreement not being brought to life in any way due to Turkey

2. To exploit the Kars-Gyumri railway

3. To invite His Holiness Catholicos of All Armenians Garegin II to the liturgy service to be delivered in Surb Khach (Saint Cross)
Church on Akhtamar Island in Lake Van and open the border gate in front of him

4. To open trade office in both countries

5. To ease the visa regime for tourists who visit the ruins of Ani and other areas

What can Armenia do in return?

1. Again a high-level statement will be made about withdrawing the troops from Karabakh and adjacent areas should the issue be resolved

2. Likewise, recognition of Turkey's current border will be announced