Vladimir Zakharov: the most important issue of the Armenian Genocide recognition is the awareness issue

YEREVAN, JULY 17, ARMENPRESS: “Armenpress” news agency’s interview with Russian expert Vladimir Zakharov and judge, heir of Kars people Alexander Tonkonozhenko.

- What ways do you see for reaching the recognition of the Armenian Genocide by Turkey?

Vladimir Zakharov: - In my opinion the most important issue is the awareness issue. It is necessary to increase the level of awareness of both European and Turkish publics over the issue as the opinion formed in Turkey does not change in any way and the expression of other opinion over the genocide, than the state one immediately brings to forensic cases, etc. But here there is an important circumstance: Turkey seeks to become member of the EU, thus the Europeans must be explained that Armenian Genocide was committed and for doing it, it is necessary to supply them books, believe me, there is a reading public there. But Turkey does not surrender too and gives Europeans literature which expresses other view about the genocide. It must be explained in what issue the Turkish opinion is wrong: this work must be implemented by all means.

Alexander Tonkozhenko: - I think that it is necessary to coordinate the facts relating to the genocide in two directions. First it must be viewed as a tragedy of human life and than as a cultural tragedy – lost homeland with its cultural wealth, the second one is international legal direction. Here of course, it is necessary to have legal arguments. Besides, international experience exists, I mean Nierenberg trial, the trials recently being held in Europe connected with the former Yugoslavia, etc.

- How do you assess the policy of denial of the Armenian Genocide adopted by Turkey?

Vladimir Zakharov: - I have met many Turkish diplomats and I have always asked them – why don’t you make the first step, why don’t you apologize to Armenians even if you do not bear personal responsibility? They say the guilty are the dashnaks and I say stop making tales. Hundred years passed and we all know that the young Turks are guilty. In reality Turks are afraid that the same may take place like in the case of Holocaust – paying compensation, etc. But finally it is necessary to answer for what happened.

Alexander Tonkozhenko: - I am not a political figure and as a judge I do not have right to deal with politics but I can say that when the Russian State Duma recognized the Armenian Genocide, I personally was very happy as the heir of people of Kars.