Pashinyan, Erdogan discuss normalization again as border remains shut

(NEW YORK) – Nikol Pashinyan and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met in New York on Tuesday, once again discussing the normalization of Armenia-Turkey relations as the two countries remain without diplomatic ties and their land border remains closed.

The two leaders discussed implementing previous agreements and giving new momentum to the normalization process. They also addressed trade and economic relations, contacts between business communities and the joint restoration of the historic Ani bridge.

The meeting also covered the Armenia-Azerbaijan process, the TRIPP project and the opening of regional transport routes. Erdogan has repeatedly linked progress with Armenia to developments between Yerevan and Baku, despite both governments publicly describing the Armenia-Turkey normalization process as one without preconditions.

Negotiations between Yerevan and Ankara have been underway through special representatives since January 2022. More than four years later, full diplomatic relations have yet to be established and the land border remains closed.