Armenia has launched a rail service to Europe via Turkey
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan announced the official opening of the Akhalkalaki (Georgia)–Kars (Turkey) railway route for his country’s export and import operations.
This step allows the republic to establish direct rail connections with European Union countries via Turkish territory for the first time.
The new transport corridor significantly expands the logistics capabilities of a country that has long been in a state of partial transport isolation due to closed borders.
Armenian authorities view the launch of this route as a historic breakthrough for the national economy and the expansion of its trade geography.
“I am pleased to announce that the Akhalkalaki-Kars railway, like the Azerbaijan railway, is now open for exports from Armenia and imports to Armenia. This is a major event for our country’s economic life. I thank our partners in Turkey and Georgia,” Pashinyan noted.
Thanks to the implementation of this infrastructure project, Armenia has effectively completed the formation of a basic railway network in several strategic directions.
Currently, the country has an operational rail connection with Russia via the territories of Georgia and Azerbaijan, and further on, via the territories of Russia and Kazakhstan, with China.
The launch of the Turkish route completes the global transit chain, opening up access to European markets for businesses.
Armenia may receive visa-free travel to the EU within two years — Pashinyan
Earlier, Armenia appealed to the EU to send a rapid response team to counter Russian influence.
The EU confirmed its support for Armenia’s European aspirations.
Pashinyan also stated that Armenia is seeking EU membership.
