Pashinyan & Erdogan Discuss Peace and Regional Projects in ‘Historic’ Istanbul Meeting

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held a historic meeting in Istanbul to discuss the ongoing process of normalizing relations between Armenia and Turkey.

During their talks, the two leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining a constructive dialogue and working toward real, concrete results. They also discussed regional developments and explored potential areas for bilateral cooperation.

The Armenia-Azerbaijan peace process and Armenia’s “Crossroads of Peace” regional project were also key topics on the agenda. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to continuing direct contact and open dialogue.

The high-level meeting took place at Dolmabahce Palace, a historic building designed by Armenian architect Garabet Balyan — a symbolic setting that reflects the deep and complex history between the two nations.

While both sides agreed to keep the conversation going, many Armenians remain skeptical, especially after years of conflict, broken promises, and national trauma.

Pashinyan and Erdogan both underlined the importance of sustaining open and constructive communication between Armenia and Turkey. They discussed ways to improve relations and identified possible areas for future cooperation.

Prime Minister Pashinyan reiterated Armenia’s commitment to building peace and stability in the South Caucasus and improving ties with its neighbors — including Turkey. However, this policy of engagement has faced strong criticism back home, especially after the 2020 Artsakh War and the mass forced displacement of over 120,000 Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh in 2023.

The leaders also exchanged views on the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace process — a topic where Turkey plays an influential and often controversial role. Turkey has openly supported Azerbaijan, including militarily during the 2020 war, which raises serious concerns among Armenians about whether Turkey can be a fair partner in peace negotiations.

They also discussed Armenia’s "Crossroads of Peace" project — a regional transportation and trade initiative proposed by the Armenian government. While the project is aimed at opening new economic routes for the region, critics worry that it could result in dangerous compromises to Armenia’s sovereignty or national security, especially if Turkey and Azerbaijan exert pressure during negotiations.

According to official statements, both Pashinyan and Erdogan confirmed they are ready to continue direct communication and future talks. While the language of diplomacy sounded hopeful, it has not eased the concerns of many Armenians both in Armenia and across the diaspora.

In Istanbul, the local Armenian community gave a cool reception to Pashinyan’s visit. Notably, no Armenian clergy were present when he visited the Holy Mother of God Armenian Cathedral. That absence was widely interpreted as a quiet but powerful sign of protest or discomfort with Pashinyan’s leadership and foreign policy direction.

Pashinyan has announced plans to invite Erdogan to Yerevan in 2026 during the European Political Community summit. Whether Erdogan will accept the invitation — and whether any real progress will result — remains uncertain.

For now, the Armenian government continues to promote a message of peace, stability, and regional dialogue. But Armenians are left asking a serious question: can peace be achieved without sacrificing national dignity and security?

This story is still developing. The Armenian Report will continue to follow and report updates as more information becomes available.

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