"For 70 years people have drunk blood in order to raise the issue of the Genocide so that Armenia today can use it in the negotiations process. Can we now just hand it over in such an easy fashion? People need to have some dignity. We are devaluing the matter and for what purpose? What are we getting in return?" This is how ARF Bureau representative Hrand Margaryan described recent developments in current phase of Armenian-Turkish relations. He stated that developments were entering a very serious phase and that it was not a matter of simply restoring diplomatic relations with Turkey. "We do not have the right to hide behind the shadows and not address issues openly," Mr. Margaryan said. The ARF spokesperson argued that by signing the recent protocols, we have signed away the rights that belong to future generations and have questioned the validity of the Armenian Genocide. Mr. Margaryan expressed the view that the Genocide was a security issue for Armenia, a matter of honor and an important component in the struggle for justice. "In this way, we are preparing the road leading to the division of the nation and that this threat must be avoided at all costs. We are also concerned as to whether there are mechanisms for debate that will produce actual results and that will allow for modifications. The government must address this question. They must ensure that debate on the issue is real and not symbolic. It is not enough to merely say 'yes or no' to these protocols. If that is the case, then our people must loudly answer - no," Mr. Margaryan said. When asked why the ARF has only demanded the resignation of the RoA Foreign Minister and not President Sargsyan, who formulates foreign policy, Mr. Margaryan agreed that the head of state is responsible for policy but that the execution of said policy is the reserve of a professional corps of officials and diplomats. "The president works with a professional staff. There would be no need for a foreign minister if the head of state was in total mastering of the nuances of foreign affairs. The foreign minister serves as the advisor to the president, offering direction and suggestions. The role of the foreign minister cannot be underestimated. Naturally, the president is ultimately responsible for foreign policy but by calling for the resignation of the foreign minister we are also expressing an opinion on the steps being taken by the president. Calling for the resignation of the president is another matter entirely, but it too cannot be ruled out,” Mr. Margaryan concluded.