Question: As was known, the transfer of our citizens from Turkey to Armenia was organized. How was it possible to organize the process in conditions of closed borders and the absence of diplomatic relations?

Answer: As you are aware, Armenia undertakes every possible step to ensure the return of our citizens to Armenia, and the priority is particularly given to citizens who appeared in difficult situations in countries with tense epidemiological situation. For this reason, a decision was made to organize the transfer of Armenian citizens in Turkey who showed willingness to return to Armenia.

We should note that about a hundred citizens of Armenia in Turkey contacted the Foreign Ministry of Armenia. With the efforts and funding of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, the transfer through the territory of Georgia of 70 Armenian citizens willing to return is being carried out. They will be subjected to a 14-day mandatory quarantine regime upon arrival in Armenia. The transfer is agreed with the relevant services of Turkey and Georgia, and their support is commendable.

Question. The statement issued by the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople reads that Turkey plans to provide assistance to Armenia in the fight against COVID19.

Answer: We learned about the press-release on the phone conversation of Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople with the President of Turkey. As a third party, we would refrain from commenting on unofficial information. In any case, we have no such issue on the agenda.