WASHINGTON CALLS TURKEY TO CEASE BLOCKADE OF ARMENIA

PanARMENIAN.Net - The US government calls the Turkish leadership to open the frontier with Armenia when a slightest opportunity is offered, which will let reduce transport expenses, develop trade between the two countries, stimulate economic development of Armenia and East Turkey and will finally do good to the entire region. As reported by "Liberty" radio station, says the US State Department latest report. Moreover, the document notes Armenia can become the shortest direct transport corridor between Turkey and its "close friend" Azerbaijan. Specifically, the opening of the Armenian-Turkish border will provide for uninterrupted rail communication between Istanbul and Baku, as well as communication between the Mediterranean and Caspian Seas. The report notes the issue was discussed by official Ankara representatives in the course of US state secretary Collin Powel's visit to Turkey April 2. Meanwhile, the document does not report the details of the talks. At the same time the Department of State has praised Armenia "for enlargement of relations with Ankara at various diplomatic levels since 2002."