Unblocking communications will restore region's role: Armenian speaker on talks with Azerbaijan
YEREVAN, December 11. /ARKA/. Armenia is actively engaged in negotiations with Azerbaijan to unblock transport infrastructures. This was stated by the Speaker of the National Assembly of Armenia, Alen Simonyan, during his speech at the opening ceremony of the 64th plenary session of the PABSEC (Parliamentary Assembly of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation) General Assembly in Yerevan.
"It is equally important to utilize communication routes with Turkey. A successful outcome of this process could restore the region's significance in international cargo transportation, fostering the prosperity of our countries and peoples, and promoting peace in the region," Simonyan said.
According to him, tackling the challenges in the region requires a comprehensive approach. In this context, economic cooperation is a key tool for maintaining international peace and security.
"Armenia is a landlocked country with systemic vulnerabilities in accessing global markets. Therefore, we recognize the importance of equal and inclusive connectivity, open borders, and fully functioning transport infrastructure for the economic well-being of the region," Simonyan said.
He noted that eliminating political barriers to the free movement of people, goods, and services, as well as realizing economic and social human rights, including the right to development, is a crucial prerequisite for fully realizing the economic potential of the Black Sea region and integrating into global markets.
"The Black Sea region is crucial for the development of East-West and North-South trade and transport links. To unlock and harness the region's transport potential, we must focus our efforts on effectively utilizing PABSEC mechanisms. The implementation of the Black Sea Ring Road and Sea Routes initiatives can significantly enhance the sustainability and quality of transport infrastructure in our region. It is also important to develop joint mechanisms to facilitate trade and simplify customs procedures," Simonyan said.
He emphasized that, due to its geographical location, the South Caucasus can facilitate economic cooperation and trade between Europe and Asia.
"Unblocking all trade and transport communications in the South Caucasus will open new opportunities not only for the region's economic development, but also for fostering respect for the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, equality, and reciprocity among states in people-to-people contacts and cultural ties. This will significantly contribute to security and stability both within the region and beyond," Simonyan said.
He stated that the Armenian government, guided by this vision, introduced the “Crossroads of Peace” initiative.
This program, as part of our peace agenda, aims to develop regional communications based on international law, sovereignty, and the jurisdiction of states. The “Crossroads of Peace” initiative can effectively link the Persian Gulf, the Black Sea, and the Caspian Sea, fostering the expansion of economic cooperation and trade.
“Crossroads of the Peace” aims to transform the paradigm of relations in our region from confrontation to cooperation.
"We hope that the parliaments of the PABSEC member states will support this initiative, which is fully aligned with the principles and norms of international law. I am confident that, through joint efforts, we can make a significant contribution to a brighter and more prosperous future for all countries in our region," Simonyan said.
