Unblocking communications in South Caucasus should happen simultaneously, Pashinyan emphasizes principle of reciprocity
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Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has assured that the unblocking of communications in the South Caucasus, as outlined in the joint declaration signed by Armenia, Azerbaijan, and the United States, will occur simultaneously, roads will be opened for both Azerbaijan and Armenia. He stressed the importance of the principle of reciprocity in this process.
Pashinyan highlighted that the trilateral declaration provides a clear answer on the simultaneous opening of communications.
“Indeed, of course, it should be simultaneous, in terms of content and there is no room for misinterpretations here. In fact, it has already happened simultaneously, as the document was signed simultaneously. Technically, the only issue now may be the pace of construction,” the Prime Minister said.
He reiterated that Armenia’s sovereignty must be fully respected in the unblocking process.
“This includes both passport and customs controls, which our state institutions must carry out,” Pashinyan said, recalling that Armenia had expressed readiness in 2022 to make certain simplifications in these procedures.
Pashinyan reaffirmed that the process of lifting the blockade will be based on the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and jurisdiction.
“Reciprocity is also important, and this reciprocity concerns the opening of roads. Reciprocity means roads are being opened for Azerbaijan and for Armenia. Now we must focus on the timely and effective construction of infrastructure.”
“There will be very interesting projects: a gas pipeline, possibly gas pipelines, an oil pipeline, possibly oil pipelines, power lines, internet cables… All must operate within the framework of Armenia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and jurisdiction,” Pashinyan said.