16.07.2025 17:12
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, recalling that some citizens have reacted to the normalization process with Turkey, stated, "If Armenia does not reach an agreement with Turkey, what other alternatives are there? They are suggesting that we go to war with a country like Turkey. Are they really aware of what they are talking about?"
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan answered journalists' questions at a press conference held in the capital, Yerevan.
TRANSPORTATION ROUTES IN THE SOUTH CAUCASUS
Addressing the issue of opening transportation routes in the South Caucasus, Pashinyan stated that they are interested in opening transportation routes from Armenia to Azerbaijan through Azerbaijani territories and from Azerbaijan to Armenia through Armenian territories, as well as facilitating mutual trade and access to third countries.
Pashinyan emphasized that all negotiations regarding transportation routes are conducted based on Armenia's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and jurisdiction, noting that no discussions are carried out or will be carried out detached from these principles.
THE U.S. 'ZANGEZUR CORRIDOR' PROPOSAL
Evaluating the U.S. proposal to "put the Syunik road (Zangezur Corridor) under U.S. control," Pashinyan stated, "All proposals are evaluated within the framework of Armenia's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and jurisdiction. Regardless of the terms used, whether it is external resource utilization, leasing, or investment, all processes are shaped in accordance with these fundamental principles. There is also external resource utilization in areas such as Zvartnots Airport and railways. However, this model does not harm sovereignty, and the ownership in question remains state-owned." he said.
Pashinyan mentioned that the establishment of a new company to attract investment in the context of opening regional transportation has also been discussed, stating that not only land and railways but also pipelines, energy transmission lines, and communication cables are planned in this framework.
THE ARMENIAN REGIME IN KARABAKH
Referring to the so-called Armenian regime that once existed in Karabakh, Pashinyan stated, "I cannot allow the formation of a second state structure within Armenia. The state will take the necessary steps in this regard."
SUSPENSION OF RUSSIAN TELEVISION CHANNELS
Pashinyan expressed that he has open and transparent relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, stating, "However, some Russian television channels are crossing the line. I do not want to make a decision to suspend broadcasts, but some forces are pushing us to take steps in this direction."
POSSIBILITY OF ARMENIA'S WITHDRAWAL FROM THE COLLECTIVE SECURITY TREATY ORGANIZATION
Speaking about his country's relations with the Collective Security Treaty Organization, Pashinyan shared, "The possibility of Armenia withdrawing from this structure is higher than the possibility of playing an active role in the organization."
"WE WANT TO JOIN THE EUROPEAN UNION"
Pashinyan stated that during his visit to Brussels, he was asked about their desire to join the European Union (EU), saying, "Yes, we want EU membership."
NEW CONSTITUTION DISCUSSIONS
Addressing the discussions on the new constitution in his country, Pashinyan stated, "The judiciary's organic ties with society are weak. I believe that mechanisms that will directly involve the public in the judiciary, such as a jury system, should be established within the framework of the new constitution."
"WE ARE WORKING FOR PEACE WITH AZERBAIJAN"
Pashinyan stated that they are working to achieve lasting peace with Azerbaijan, saying, "There will be peace, not war. I believe that the Armenian people will also support this process." He also mentioned peace negotiations, stating, "An agreement can be initialed before it is signed. Such an option is also on the table."
"WE WILL SAVE THE ARMENIAN APOSTOLIC CHURCH"
Regarding the tension between the government and the church, Pashinyan commented, "The Armenian Apostolic Church is sacred to me. Everything we do today is done on behalf of and for the church. We cannot ignore the fact that the church has harmed its own existence through its own actions. We will save the church, just as we saved Armenia from Serzh Sargsyan."
"WHAT ALTERNATIVES ARE THERE BESIDES REACHING AN AGREEMENT WITH TURKEY?"
Pashinyan, addressing his country's relations with Turkey and stating that some citizens reacted to the normalization of relations, said, "If Armenia does not reach an agreement with Turkey, what other alternatives are there? They are telling us to go to war with a country like Turkey. Do they really understand what they are talking about?"
WHAT TOPICS DID THEY DISCUSS WITH PRESIDENT ERDOĞAN?
Pashinyan recalled his meeting with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, saying, "I thanked President Erdoğan for his invitation and sincere and open conversation. We discussed all topics in the meeting. Opening transportation routes, establishing relations, possible cooperation in various fields, the restoration of the historical bridge in Ani, and other issues. My overall impressions were positive; I cannot mention any negative details regarding this meeting."