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Former Turkish ambassador: Germany to get adequate response in case of so-called 'Armenian genocide' recognition - INTERVIEW

INTERVIEW '>

31 May 2016 15:38 (UTC +04:00)

Q. The German Bundestag is expected to approve a draft resolution on the recognition of the so-called "Armenian genocide" on June 2. As a diplomat and politician knowing much about Germany, can you say what is the purpose of it?

A. Germany is a making a serious mistake. If the document is approved, it would undermine Turkish-German relations. Armenians claim that the Turks committed â€œan act of genocideâ€ against them 100 years ago in order to cover up the crimes they committed against the Turks. This is a false propaganda to hide the Armenian genocide against Turks. During World War I, the Armenians, taking advantage of the fact that the Ottoman Army was fighting on different fronts, committed an act of genocide against 519,000 Turks in eastern and southeastern regions of the country. Twenty four years ago, they also committed genocide against the population of Azerbaijanâ€™s Khojaly town. There are videos and photos reflecting the act of genocide committed in Khojaly. Armenians are conducting propaganda against Turkey to cover it up and remove from the agenda. It is regrettable that Germany is convinced and brought the draft resolution on the â€œArmenian genocideâ€ bill to Bundestag. The European Court of Human Rights has passed a judgment in this regard that canâ€™t be complained about. How could Germany overlook and disregard it? While we suggest exclusion of chapters on the â€œArmenian genocideâ€ from textbooks in Europe, Germanyâ€™s adoption of any resolution on â€œArmenian genocideâ€ will mean nothing to us. I reiterate that they will get an adequate response.

Q. At a time both the Constitutional Council of France and the European Court of Human Rights made a decision, we saw all Turkic organizations in Europe join their forces for this cause. The first step against the attempt in Germany was taken by the protest held last Saturday by the Talat Pasha Committee outside the Bundestag. How do you see the future developments?

A. As was the case last time, the process will diversify this time too. We will show Germany our strength.

Q. What do the Turkish government and parliament have to do in this process?

A. The Turkish people, not the Turkish government or parliament. Everyone will see what we can do.

Q. Regardless of outlooks, are you fully convinced that the Turkish community and Turkish NGOs in Europe will again unite forces?

A. This is a matter of honor and dignity of the Turkish nation, who may offer their souls but would never let their honor and dignity be lowered. Of this, I want to remind the German Bundestag and all the parliaments passionate for a resolution on â€œArmenian genocide.â€