The '3+3' Platform Will Contribute to the Development of Ankara and Yerevan Relations, Erdogan States

Turkey pays special attention to the restoration of stable peace in the South Caucasus. This was announced by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan during a press conference with reporters following the G20 summit in Rome on October 31.

According to him, negotiations are currently ongoing regarding the formation of the "six-platform" in the South Caucasus. “Azerbaijan, Turkey, Russia, Iran, Georgia, and Armenia, let us take joint steps and establish peace in the region. In this regard, Mr. Ilham Aliyev has already made an offer to Armenia concerning peace in the region. There is a certain negative attitude on the part of Georgia, but if all these countries show a positive approach, then this platform will be created, and the region will become a platform for peace,” Erdogan stated.

The Turkish president noted that the establishment of such a platform would also contribute positively to the development of relations between Ankara and Yerevan.

The intention to create the “3+3” format was previously announced by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. It is anticipated that if the format is established, it will include Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey, Iran, and Russia. The platform will focus on unblocking communication and economic ties in the South Caucasus.

Iran welcomed the initiative, stating its readiness to take steps to strengthen peace in the region. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov also mentioned Russia's interest in the initiative, stating that they are working with the Armenian side. The Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs declared that the country is not interested in participating in the “3+3” format, citing Russia's involvement as the reason.