US, UE praise Turkish-Armenian normalization process, urge quick implementation

The US State Department yesterday welcomed protocols signed between Turkey and Armenia this week under Swiss mediation towards normalized relations between the two countries. Department spokesperson Ian Kelly said yesterday that the US' longstanding position is that normalization ought to take place without preconditions and within a reasonable time frame, and urged Armenia and Turkey to proceed expeditiously under the agreed-on framework. The US announced it was ready to work closely with both governments in support of normalization, which it called a historic process that should contribute to peace, security and stability throughout the region. In related news, European Union Commissioner for Enlargement Olli Rehn and European Commissioner for External Relations Benita Ferrero-Waldner released a statement saying that they place great importance on quick and determined implementation of the protocols.