President Khachaturyan participates in Armenian-initiated LLDC3 side event on regional security and cooperation

President Vahagn Khachaturyan, who is on a working visit to Turkmenbashi,Turkmenistan, took part in the side event and panel discussion titled “Promoting Regional Security and Cooperation through Improved Trade and Transport Links,” organized by the Armenian side within the framework of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC3).

According to the Presidential Office, in his opening remarks, President Khachaturyan stated:

“Honourable Prime Minister of Nepal,

Honourable Minister of Transport of Tajikistan,

Dear participants,

Your Excellencies,

Ladies and gentlemen,

I am pleased to welcome you to the discussion on "Promoting Regional Security and Cooperation through Improved Trade and Transport Links," organized by Armenia.”

President Khachaturyan expressed his gratitude to representatives from landlocked countries and international organizations for their participation in the discussion.

“This event is aimed at addressing existing obstacles and identifying ways to transform landlocked countries into land-connected nations. It seeks to create opportunities for accessing global markets, contributing to a more interconnected and harmonious world, improving living conditions, promoting green growth, and fostering human development,” he said.

The President emphasized that transport connectivity is often seen as a vital tool for facilitating the movement of goods and people, stimulating trade and economic relations, and linking geographically distant regions. However, he noted that connectivity also plays a direct role in promoting regional stability, security, and peace.

“Historically, the construction of transportation infrastructure has symbolized influence and power. We still witness this today when certain connectivity projects prioritize geopolitical interests over trade, prosperity, and people-to-people contacts, deepening dividing lines instead of bridging them,” he said.

He highlighted that today’s world demands universal connectivity and cooperation at all levels. Cross-border flows of goods, services, and people have become a key driver of the global economy, fostering growth, innovation, and interconnection.

“Fair and inclusive connectivity based on economic foundations, protection of social and economic rights, and promotion of intercultural ties can contribute significantly to peace and security,” the President said.

He added that developing sustainable infrastructure and removing barriers to the free movement of people, goods, and services is essential for ensuring the realization of economic and social rights and can foster inclusive regional and global connectivity.

“We have repeatedly emphasized that effective regional cooperation and well-planned transport initiatives can overcome political differences and serve as a foundation for peace, stability, and long-term development turning regions into prosperous transit hubs.”

President Khachaturyan underlined Armenia’s firm understanding of the importance of open borders and fully functioning infrastructure. In this context, he highlighted Armenia’s “Crossroads of Peace” initiative.

“This program reflects Armenia’s commitment to regional peace and cooperation. It aims to build a more interconnected and harmonious world, raise living standards, promote environmentally sustainable economic growth, and support human development,” he noted.

He recalled that historically, Armenia served as a vital crossroads linking North to South and West to East, with a rich legacy in trade, culture, and diplomacy.

“The Silk Road, which passed through Armenia, was not merely a trade route, it was a cultural bridge that united people and fostered intercultural dialogue.”

President Khachaturyan added that today, due to its geographic location and historical legacy, Armenia is well-positioned to contribute to economic cooperation between Asia and Europe, to deepen people-to-people connections, and to strengthen cultural ties.

“We are convinced that the unblocking of all trade and transport routes in the South Caucasus will open up new opportunities for the movement of goods, cargo, and people, becoming a cornerstone for peace, security, and prosperity not only in our region but beyond,” he concluded.