Armenia's Crossroads of Peace project has potential to boost regional cooperation in various directions - Mirzoyan

YEREVAN, DECEMBER 19, ARMENPRESS. The "Crossroads of Peace" project, which places great importance on building mutual trust and expanding connectivity as the foundation of peace, has the potential to boost regional cooperation in various directions, said Foreign Minister Mirzoyan in a video message at the 49th meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation Organization. 

According to the Foreign Minister, driven by the firm belief that regional dialogue is key to establishing mutually beneficial collaboration, the Government of Armenia has introduced the "Crossroads of Peace" initiative.

“Guided by the vision of inclusiveness and equitable use of regional infrastructure and building a prosperous future for all interested parties, this project aims at the development of communications between the countries of the region with full respect for the state sovereignty and territorial integrity, and principles of equality and reciprocity,” said Mirzoyan.

“You are most probably aware of the recent discussions in this regard in our immediate neighborhood: with Türkiye we have already agreed to jointly assess the technical requirements for the border crossing by the Gyumri-Kars railway, while at the same time we have proposed to Azerbaijan modalities of relaunching our rail infrastructure, simplifying border crossing and customs procedures and providing some additional insurance mechanisms,” the FM said.

“By placing a significant emphasis on building mutual trust and possible enhanced connectivity as the foundation for peace, the "Crossroads of Peace" Project has the potential to foster regional cooperation on multiple fronts. It could efficiently link the Gulf, the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea, thus significantly contributing to the integration of our region into global transport chains and bringing enormous benefits to all countries of our region. The Project has already received positive reactions from numerous international partners, and we will continue our efforts to consolidate further support towards its implementation,” mentioned Mirzoyan.

Foreign Minister Mirzoyan noted that open borders, unconstrained, free and inclusive regional economic cooperation are the key objectives of this Organization.

“Armenia is committed to constructive and efficient cooperation within the BSEC to advance peace and stability in the Black Sea Region and beyond,” said Mirzoyan, wishing success to Azerbaijan as the incoming Chair.