Epress.am News from Armenia
In honor of the 20th anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Armenia, Epress.am’s Turkish correspondent spoke with members of Turkey’s Armenian community to find out what they think of Armenia’s independence.
President of the Şişli Armenian Sports Club Karun Kovan said that Armenia’s independence, personally, make him happy.
“But also in Armenia I don’t see an independent country. I think much of Armenia’s population wants to go back to communism. And this is a point that we have to mention. For me, it’s important that Armenia becomes truly independent,” he said.
Yet another resident, Nişan Istepan Ulak, said he is proud that he has a country like Armenia. “But on the other hand, I see a country that is stuck between Russia, Iran and Turkey. And the problem of migration is very important in the country. There is a concern that the people’s economic state will erase the signs and emotions about the [Armenian] Genocide. My dream is an Armenia without migration and with a healthy economy.”
Turkish Armenian educator Talin Nayır, in turn, said:
“Armenia is a young country which is 20 years old. Armenia grew up during these [past] 20 years and opened its doors to the world. It’s a pleasure for me that Armenia’s Independence Day is the same day as my birthday. For all Armenians around the world, Armenia is a guarantee for the future of our nation. Turkey’s Armenians have to take more part in the growth of the country. My hope for the future is for Armenia to become one of the stable countries in the world. Happy birthday, Armenia!”
Photo by Seroujo (Flickr)