“We’re crying inside, Armenians outside”
"The recognition of the Armenian Genocide is a question of remorse for Turkey. It will not lower, but raise Turkey," said Turkish lawyer, publisher Ragib Zarakolu during today's press conference, adding that many societies have taken a similar step.
"If we want to prevent new tragedies from happening, we have to say that they will never repeat and accept the mistakes made in the past," said Zarakolu.
The lawyer has published several books about the Armenian Genocide in Turkey. One of them is a book about the Armenian-Turkish dialogue, which remained a dream.
"I attach more importance to the dialogue between the civil societies of both countries, which can lead to something," said Ragib Zarakolu.
Zarakolu says Turkey has several reasons for not recognizing the Armenian Genocide.
"First, it is linked to Turkey's ideology, followed by the psychological part and finally, the issue of financial compensation."
Ragib Zarakolu was a child when he first heard about Armenians from his mother. "We are crying inside and Armenians are crying outside."
The Turkish publisher, who is also involved in the protection of human rights, has published four books about the Armenian Genocide and cases have been filed against him under Article 301 of the Criminal Code. In June 2008, Zarakolu was acknowledged guilty by the Turkish court for "Offending the grounds of the Republic of Turkey", that is, publishing a book about the Armenian Genocide.
Today Ragib Zarakolu received a letter of gratitude and the Hakob Meghapart Medal for his contribution to Armenian Genocide recognition.
