US AMBASSADOR TO TURKEY SPEAKS ON ARMENIAN-TURKISH RELATIONS
June 24, 2013 | 16:13
US Ambassador to Turkey, Francis Ricciardone, and his wife visited
Akhtamar Island on Lake Van, and marveled at the Surp Khach (Holy
Cross) Armenian Church on the island.
Following his trip, Ricciardone shared his impressions with news
reporters, CNN Turk news agency of Turkey reports. He stressed that,
after its restoration, the church had become more beautiful than 33
years ago, ever since his first visit there.
The US ambassador also stated that the process of normalization of
relations between Turkey and Armenia was moving forward.
” The results are already apparent. Four times more tourists visited
Akhtamar as compared to the previous year. The history of Van occupies
an important place for tourism. At the same time, it is very important
for the Armenians and the Americans. Those that want to come to Van
should come without hesitation,” the American diplomat noted.
From: A. Papazian
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