Armenian Premier Highlights Benefits of Washington Agreements for EAEU Members
Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan highlighted the significance of the Washington agreements between Armenia and Azerbaijan, emphasizing their potential benefits not only for bilateral relations but also for members of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). His remarks were made during the international forum “Orbeli: Building Peace and Multilateral Cooperation.”
Impact of Washington Agreements on EAEU Members
Pashinyan noted a critical development: Baku’s decision to lift cargo transit restrictions to Armenia. This pivotal move allows the first shipment of Kazakh grain to arrive in Armenia via the Aktau-Baku railway, followed by the Azerbaijan-Georgia railway. This unblocking of transport routes not only facilitates trade for Armenia and Azerbaijan but also extends benefits to Central Asian countries.
Wider Regional Benefits
The unblocking of transport routes opens opportunities for several countries, including:
- Iran
- Georgia
- Turkey
- Russia
Pashinyan expressed that while some may argue these developments could undermine EAEU interests, the Washington agreements have made previously impossible collaborations between EAEU countries attainable. He cited increasing prospects for Uzbekistan as well, with both nations eager to strengthen economic and political ties despite logistical challenges.
Future Initiatives
In response to the Azerbaijani president’s recent announcement, Armenia has expressed its willingness to facilitate truck transit between Turkey and Azerbaijan through the Margara and Khndzoresk routes. Pashinyan emphasized that these routes are currently the only ones fully equipped with the necessary infrastructure, enabling trade efficiency.
In conclusion, the Washington agreements are poised to significantly reshape regional dynamics, benefitting not just Armenia and Azerbaijan but also providing new pathways for cooperation across the EAEU and beyond.
