Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, at a Moscow press briefing today, said that Moscow is ready to facilitate the normalization of Armenian-Turkish relations.

“We have recorded the recent exchange of positive signals between Yerevan and Ankara. We are now ready to contribute in every way to the rapprochement of the two neighboring states on the basis of mutual respect and taking into account each other's interests," Zakharova said.

According to the Russian diplomat, the normalization of relations between the two countries will contribute to peace, stability and prosperity in the region, especially in the context of the statements of the leaders of Russia, Azerbaijan and Armenia on November 9, 2020 and January 11, 2021 against the background of normalization of Armenian-Azerbaijani relations.

Zakharova noted that Russia has always been in favor of the normalization of relations between Armenia and Turkey and has actively participated in that process.

"By the way, we have previously directly participated in relevant mediation efforts. Thus, we facilitated the signing of the so-called Zurich Protocols in 2009. The latter presupposed the gradual improvement of Armenia-Turkey relations step by step, without preconditions. Indeed, Russia played not only a mediator, but also a practical, effective role, which led to positive results during that meeting. Unfortunately, the initiatives reached by the parties as a result of Russia's mediation were not implemented. But that was already the will of each state," Zakharova said.

Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan recently stated that he sees positive signals from Turkey in the context of regional peace.

"Returning to the topic of regional peace, I must say that there are certain public positive signals from Turkey. We will evaluate those signals, we will respond positively to the positive signals," Pashinyan said.

In response, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated that Ankara is ready for the gradual normalization of relations with Armenia given the background of the latter's statements of reconciliation.

"Our region needs a constructive approach. Even if there are disagreements, the development of neighborly relations should be based on respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty. That is why we can gradually normalize relations with Armenia. The new government has announced its readiness to move in that direction," Erdogan told reporters on the plane on his way back from a visit to Sarajevo.

Erdogan said that the proposal to create a "Five Platform" or "Six Platform" is on the agenda, in which Turkey, Azerbaijan, Russia, Iran and Armenia will participate.

"We have offered to include Georgia here as well. If such a platform is organized, the situation in the region will be calmer," Erdogan said.

He mentioned that he had discussed the issue with Putin and Aliyev, and that he would soon talk about it with newly elected Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi.

Photo: RIA Novosti