The normalization process between Turkey and Armenia, which has been talked about for years but has never been boldly pursued, is now slowly settling on a real basis.
As of May 11, the messages of mutual understanding on agriculture and trade are not just an economic development; it is also a sign of a new mindset for the future of the region.
As the recent South Caucasus security conferences have pointed out, the language of stability is no longer the language of war. Because everyone knows that peace is always cheaper, more humane and more valuable than war.
If there is peace, there is trust.
Relationships thrive when there is trust.
If relations improve, trade grows.
If trade grows, societies prosper.
Today, the fact that borders that have remained closed for years, societies that look at each other with suspicion and political memorizations have started to change is not a matter to be underestimated. Because Turks and Armenians are not just neighbors in this geography, but two ancient peoples who have lived in the same destiny for thousands of years.
Of course, the pain of the past cannot be forgotten. The traumas left by 1915, the years of war, the losses and resentments will remain on the pages of history. However, trying to build the future by constantly scratching the wounds of the past will bring nothing but new pain to the peoples.
The policies of the imperial powers in the region during the decline of the Ottoman Empire deepened the mistrust between the peoples. People who once lived on the same street were turned into enemies. We still bear the scars of this today. But if a new page can now be turned, this should be supported rather than despised.
For Nikol Pashinyan, this process could be an important opportunity for Armenia. Likewise, for Turkey, this is a way to establish stronger economic and diplomatic relations in the South Caucasus.
I believe that peace is not a romantic discourse, but a realistic need, because war has no winners, but peace is won by the people.
Diplomatic steps that may seem small today may be the beginning of a period in which borders open, trade grows and people get to know each other again.
And to be frank, that is why I am happy today, because this geography deserves to be remembered not with hatred, but with the idea of living together again.