Armenia’s Foreign Minister Skips Antalya Forum, Signaling Discontent
Yerevan, Armenia – Armenia’s Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan did not attend the Antalya Diplomatic Forum, a move interpreted by experts as a signal of growing discontent with Turkey’s failure to implement agreements reached between the two countries. The forum, held April 17-19, featured representatives from numerous nations. Deputy Foreign Minister Vahan Kostanyan represented Armenia at the event, while Foreign Minister Mirzoyan and special envoy Ruben Rubinyan opted not to travel.
Rubinyan stated he would “not go to Antalya. I am not going to travel there every time.”
The decision follows a period of negotiations aimed at normalizing relations between Armenia and Turkey. Despite agreements reached in 2022, including a planned opening of the Armenia-Turkey border to third-country nationals and diplomatic passport holders, the border remains closed.
“If Turkey does not take this small step, what is there for the foreign minister to do there?” stated Turkologist Nelli Minasyan, suggesting the absence reflects a lack of progress. She also noted Turkey’s continued coordination with Azerbaijan. The situation has been complicated by a lack of implementation of previously agreed-upon steps, including the restoration of border checkpoints and the resumption of railway projects.
While Armenian officials have expressed optimism regarding progress, such as Turkey’s commencement of work on the Alican checkpoint, the overall lack of action is fueling frustration. “The ball is not on our side,” stated Special Envoy Ruben Rubinyan, highlighting the focus on border access as a key element of the normalization process. The move comes as Armenia and Turkey continue to navigate a complex relationship, marked by historical tensions and ongoing diplomatic efforts.
The Armenian government’s decision to forgo the forum is seen as a deliberate signal of its dissatisfaction with the stalled normalization process.
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This decision highlights the ongoing challenges Armenia faces in its relationship with Turkey.