Oppositionist: We should be able to transition from  memory of pain  to  memory of dignity

ArmInfo.  In the context of the changed regional reality, it is necessary to develop new conceptual approaches in all relations, including  Armenian-Turkish relations, as noted in an article by Armen  Gevorgyan, former Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia  and Member of the National Assembly from the opposition "Armenia"  faction, who presented new narratives in Armenian-Turkish relations  as part of the "Armenia Proposal" initiative.

According to the MP, these approaches must be based on the concept of  historical dignity and national responsibility, combining respect for  memory with the need for strategic common sense. In the Armenian  public consciousness, Gevorgyan emphasized, relations with Turkey  have never been a simple diplomatic matter. It pertains to the realm  of moral memory, the fate of the people, and responsibility to past  and future generations. 

"The memory of the Armenian Genocide and the memory of the people of  Artsakh cannot disappear amidst changing political and geopolitical  interests. This is precisely why new narratives of Armenian-Turkish  relations must unite memory and common sense, without losing  vigilance, without weakening will, without harboring illusions. They  are called upon to liberate Armenian memory from the narrow circle of  opposition and restore its creative power and political stature,  transforming this memory into a source of new national self-awareness  and dignity. Within the framework of the doctrine of "+1" security  accumulation, we must be able to make the transition from the memory  of pain to the memory of dignity.  This does not mean abandoning the  past. It means transforming memory into strength, focus, and  political maturity," the politician emphasized.

He added that the Armenian people inevitably face the question of how  to remain faithful to historical truth while simultaneously  preventing the past from blocking the path to the future. The answer  to this question should not be a call to "start from scratch."  "History cannot be undone, tragedy cannot be nullified, justice  cannot be exchanged. The Armenian Genocide is not a subject for  debate or an instrument of oppression. It is the historical truth and  the moral core of our national memory. But Armenian history is not  only a history of trials. It is also a history of creativity,  culture, spiritual fortitude, and labor. Nations survive not only  through trials, but also through creation, preservation, and  affirmation. Armenians made a significant contribution to the  formation of the cultural, economic, and intellectual image of the  Ottoman Empire and modern Turkey. The labor, skill, and spiritual  culture of Armenians have become an integral part of the region's  history, reflecting the richness of its civilizational heritage. This  truth is as great as the memory of a crime. It returns us to the firm  position and voice of a nation-creator, not simply a victim.

 Recognizing this reality is not a manifestation of goodwill, but an  act of maturity and historical honesty.  This creates the basis for  dialogue based on mutual respect. Today, we must prioritize our  creative potential and cultural heritage. We preserve memory not to  accuse, but to preserve the truth. Not for revenge, but for the sake  of life and the future. We have every right to speak out about the  need to preserve the Armenian historical and cultural heritage on the  territory of modern Turkey, to talk about the preservation of  Armenian shrines and monuments, about access to archives, about  scholarly dialogue and programs for the preservation of Armenian  monastic complexes, cemeteries and old quarters. It is also important  to support Armenian communities  in Turkey, the programs that reveal  the role and contribution of Armenians to the history of the region.  Armenia and Turkey can implement joint educational, research and  cultural initiatives aimed at studying and restoring the Armenian  historical presence. This is a form of respect for our memory and our  identity. We must ensure that the security of Armenia and respect for  our memory are not words, but reality. This can also be achieved  through border infrastructure projects, cultural and tourist  initiatives.  It is important to understand that this is necessary  not only for Armenians, but also for Turks," the oppositionist  concluded.