He called on everyone, particularly those who believe in a "Turkish-Armenian friendship," to make a contribution to a “new start.” He mentioned that Turkey had previously stated that relocation policies, including the events of 1915, took place under the harsh conditions of World War I, and added that Turkey shares the pain of the Armenians and is making a patient and pertinacious effort to rebuild sympathy between the two societies. He said that President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan`s statement last year -- back when he was prime minister -- extending Turkey`s condolences to the grandchildren of Armenians who lost their lives in 1915 showed that Turkey has a positive attitude toward bettering ties.
“The way to leave behind the trauma that froze time in 1915 starts with breaking taboos. Turkey, for its part, has surpassed this point and has left behind stereotypical expressions and generalizations inherited from the past,” Davutoğlu stated, stressing that it is possible for old friends to understand each other and look to a common future.
In his statement, he recalled that the Turkish and Armenian people share a common geography and history. He said these nations can only speak amongst each other and seek for solutions together. “It is a must for us to develop mutual trust and cooperation, re-learn each other in light of our 800-year-long common history and engagement in human affairs. We hereby invite our Armenian friends to visit Turkey more and lift reciprocal prejudices,” he said.
The statement was issued in 8 languages, including Armenian.
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