ArmInfo.The task group for unblocking the regional trunk lines co-headed by the Armenian, Russian and Azerbaijani vice-premiers is discussing a stage-by-stage re- opening of the Yeraskh-Goradiz railway, Armenian Vice-Premier Mher Grigoryan told the RFE/RL Armenian-language service.
Prior to the construction of a Meghri and Goradiz sections, the re-operation of the Yeraskh-Sadarak railway section is being discussed. The section will connect Armenia and Iran. "We have this desire. Any unblocking opportunity that can be taken up due to the available infrastructure is certainly desirable for us. But, to tell the truth, it is a matter to be negotiated. I cannot yet say what agreement we could reach," Mr Grigoryan said.
In an interview with RFE/RL last week, Mr Grigoryan reported that the construction of a 45-km-long railway section would cost $200mln and take up to three years. However, he did not report the date the construction of the Armenian section would be launched. Back in February, Azerbaijan launched the construction of a 100-km railway section from Goradiz to Armenia, with the project to be completed by the end of 2023.
The task group also discussed the possibility of opening the Ijevan-Gazakh railway.
"Although none of the options has been removed from the agenda, issues pertinent to the present stage of negotiations are being discussed now," Grigoryan said.
As to the settlement of customs problems following the opening of the railway, Mr Grigoryan said that the restoration of any infrastructure implies its operation under a particular country`s sovereignty and in line with its laws.
