Armenia weighs new envoy for Türkiye normalization talks

Armenia is considering appointing Deputy Foreign Minister Vahan Kostanyan as its new special representative for the normalization of relations with Türkiye, replacing Ruben Rubinyan.

Kostanyan is currently the only candidate under consideration for the role. According to the reports, his nomination is supported by Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan, who reportedly regards the deputy minister as one of his closest and most trusted associates, Caliber.Az reports, citing Armenian media.

The reports add that the appointment of a new special representative would require coordination with the Turkish side before it can be finalized, meaning no official decision has yet been made.

Responding to the speculation, Kostanyan said no discussions regarding such an appointment had taken place.

Asked whether he would accept the position if it were offered, the deputy foreign minister said he carries out the instructions of the prime minister and the foreign minister.

Armenia's Foreign Ministry also said it was unaware of any decision regarding the appointment of a new special representative.

Rubinyan is expected to step down from the role after being nominated for the post of Speaker of Armenia's National Assembly, prompting discussions over his potential successor as Yerevan continues its normalization dialogue with Ankara.

By Vafa Guliyeva