Statement
Ministry for Foreign Affairs 11 March 2010
Carl Bildt, Minister for Foreign Affairs
Carl Bildt comments on the Riksdag's recognition of 1915 massacres
Minister for Foreign Affairs Carl Bildt comments on the Riksdag's recognition of the 1915 massacres.
"Historical events should not be judged at political level, but should be left to the parties concerned to discuss on the basis of current research," said Mr Bildt.
"The Government worked actively to make this clear to the Riksdag before the debate in the Chamber, as on previous occasions when the issue has been raised.
"It should be noted that the vote went against the report of the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs, and that the Riksdag was not unanimous as is evident from the fact that the outcome was based on a majority of a single vote.
"Regrettably, the decision of the Riksdag will not make a positive contribution to the ongoing process of normalisation between Turkey and Armenia, in particular the establishment of a commission charged with investigating the events in 1915.
"This is a process that we have every reason to support as it will also lead to increased stability and security in the region.
"Moreover, the decision will not help the debate in Turkey, which has become increasingly open and tolerant as Turkey has developed closer relations with the European Union and made the democratic reforms these entail," said Mr Bildt.
Contact
Anna Charlotta Johansson(journalists only) Press Secretary to Carl Bildt
+46 8 405 54 73
+46 70 356 30 32
email to Anna Charlotta Johansson
