Armenia, Turkey could discuss resumption of trade

PanARMENIAN.Net - The resumption of mutual trade could be discussed in upcoming talks between Armenia and Turkey, Anadoly agency reports citing diplomatic sources.

In the fourth meeting, two concrete decisions were taken, and two separate meetings were held at technical levels. Sources said although there was a slowdown in momentum compared to previous months, the process did not stop and technical issues are currently being discussed.

Referring to the possibility of the resumption of trade by land, they said there was annual traffic of 160,000 tons of commercial products between the countries in 1993. That could increase exponentially if a railway between the two countries is reopened.

Sources said there is no date for a fifth round of talks but mutual steps should be taken for it to be held and the next talks will be in Türkiye or Armenia.

Regarding direct flights, they said reciprocal flights are going well and added that consular affairs are running “extremely well”. Some humanitarian steps are also being taken “that are not visible”.

Diplomatic sources said after the fourth meeting July 1, two separate meetings were held at the level of experts with the participation of various institutions.

They noted technical studies are ongoing to implement the decision to enable the transit of third-country nationals between Ankara and Yerevan.

They added that the core taking of the bridge at the Alican Border Gate was carried out by Turkish and Armenian authorities. The process regarding the passage of third-country citizens will be clarified depending on the status of the bridge.