"Right now I don't see a single justified and objective reason why the Upper Lars may be closed. I don't see any political, economic or geopolitical reason," Papoyan said.

To the journalists' remark that it could be a retaliatory step to the deterioration of Armenian-Russian relations, the minister asked whether it (deterioration) could be considered a serious reason.

"We haven't received any official letters so far," Papoyan stated. After pointing out that usually in such cases there are no written warnings, but actions are taken immediately, Papoyan preferred to retreat and stop the press briefing.

The Upper Lars checkpoint on the Georgian-Russian border is the only land route linking Armenia and Russia. However, due to the difficult terrain and unstable weather conditions, the movement of vehicles, particularly heavy trucks with Armenian products to and from Russia, is regularly restricted on this route.-0-