The Turkish Institute for Progress Applauds the West Virginia Legislature for Refusing to Consider Armenia-sponsored House Resolution 14

CHARLESTON, W.Va., March 14, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Turkish Institute for Progress (TIP) commends the West Virginia Legislature for refusing to consider H.R. 14, a resolution that contained factual errors and foreign propaganda that would hamper reconciliation efforts between Turkey and Armenia. Additionally, the legislation would have turned a blind eye to the indispensable role Turkey plays as a NATO member and strong ally to the U.S. while Armenia continues to host Russian troops and equipment in its country.

"Our organization has been looking at efforts for reconciliation between Turkey and Armenia that are needed to move the region forward, however, Armenia's increasingly strong ties with Russia are threatening future hopes at this reconciliation," stated Derya Taskin, President of the Turkish Institute for Progress. "Local and national leaders and security experts are beginning to call on Armenia to expel the two Russian bases in Armenia and to sever its economic and military ties with Putin's Russia."

"The West Virginia Legislature, we believe, sends a clear message, that in order to advance further efforts at reconciliation, Armenia must sever her ties with Russia in order to establish a peaceful reconciliation that will allow the Turks and Armenians to work together," Taskin continued. "Turkey has stood out as one of the few players in the region welcoming hundreds of thousands of refugees after the Syrian Civil War erupted — proving relief for people of all races, religions, and ethnicities. It's time that Armenia severed its ties with Putin and Russia in order for the Turks and Armenians to continue taking positive steps towards reconciliation."

TIP was founded to help foster a stronger understanding of U.S.-Turkey relations and its vital and strategic role and strengthen the bond between these longtime allies. TIP members and its growing grassroots efforts, works to help educate U.S. decision makers on this vital partnership and the unique challenges Turkey faces. For more information, visit www.turkishprogress.org.

SOURCE Turkish Institute for Progress

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