Turkey, Azerbaijan border opening with Armenia a gamechanger: EU

PanARMENIAN.Net - The reopening of Armenia’s borders with Turkey and Azerbaijan, closed for nearly three decades, would mark a turning point, said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during the first EU–Central Asia summit plenary session.

She emphasized that smooth border crossings between Central Asia and the South Caucasus are vital for reaching the Black Sea, Armenpress reported, citing the official website of the European Commission.

“Central Asia is a global gateway and the beating heart of Eurasia. That’s why our investment agenda focuses so strongly on this region,” von der Leyen stated. She added that last year the EU earmarked €10 billion for the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, which would halve the overland journey between Europe and Central Asia to just 15 days. The corridor is expected to unlock untapped business potential between the regions and boost trade among Central Asia’s five countries.

Von der Leyen also highlighted a new investor platform set for 2025 in Uzbekistan, which will serve as a source of private investment for the corridor while allowing progress assessments. In a fragmented world, she noted, the corridor could significantly strengthen links between Europe and Central Asia.

“But the infrastructure chain is not complete. To reach the Black Sea, smooth border transitions between Central Asia and South Caucasus countries are also crucial. After three decades of closure, opening Armenia’s borders with Turkey and Azerbaijan will be a game changer. It will bring Europe and Central Asia closer than ever before,” von der Leyen concluded.