ArmInfo. Solving problems in the South Caucasus region requires a comprehensive approach, and in this sense, economic cooperation is an important tool for maintaining international peace and security. Alen Simonyan, the Chairman of the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia, made this statement while addressing the General Assembly of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation.
According to him, as quoted by the press service of the RA NA, Armenia is a landlocked country and faces challenges in accessing global markets. "We therefore recognize the importance of equal and inclusive connectivity, open borders and fully functioning transport infrastructure for the economic well-being of the region. Removing political barriers to the free movement of people, goods and services, and ensuring economic and social human rights, including the right to development, are essential for the full realization of the economic potential of the Black Sea region and integration into global markets," Simonyan noted. He emphasized the significance of the Black Sea region for enhancing trade and transport communications in the East-West and North-South directions. By implementing existing initiatives, the region can significantly improve the sustainability and quality of its transport infrastructure, streamline customs procedures, and promote trade.
"Thanks to its geographical location, the South Caucasus can facilitate economic cooperation and trade between Europe and Asia. Unblocking all commercial and transport communications in the South Caucasus will open up new opportunities not only for the economic development of the region but also for people-to- people contacts and development of cultural ties based on full respect for the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, equality and reciprocity. This, in turn, will contribute to security and stability in the region and beyond," the speaker said. Simonyan mentioned that guided by this vision, the Armenian government presented the Crossroads of Peace initiative. "As part of our peace program, this initiative aims developing regional communications in accordance with international law, respecting sovereignty and jurisdiction of all parties involved. The Crossroads of Peace program has the potential to connect the Persian Gulf, the Black Sea, and the Caspian Sea, promoting the expansion of economic cooperation and trade.
Armenia constructively participated in negotiations with Azerbaijan to unblock the transport infrastructure. The successful outcome of this process can restore the region's role in international cargo transportation, benefiting our countries and peoples. The project aims to shift the paradigm of relations from confrontation to cooperation in our region. We expect that the parliaments of PABSEC member states will support this initiative, which aligns with international law principles and norms," the Chairman of the RA National Assembly concluded.
