The Rubik´s Cube of Turkey – Armenia Relations

Abstract

“Secret talks” and diplomatic efforts towards “normalizing relations” – which is a term commonly used to refer to the establishment of diplomatic relations and the opening of the common border – have continued on and off between Turkey and Armenia since the latter’s independence in the Fall of 1991. These efforts culminated with the signing of two protocols in October 2009, establishing diplomatic relations and paving the way to start examining their troubled history. The initiative attracted much public attention and came close to change the nature of the bilateral relations. This article examines the main sticking points between the two countries, the incentives for reconciliation on both sides, and the reasons why the recent efforts came as far as they did – as well as why a stalemate has ensued since then.