Azerbaijan Intensifies Work on Alternative Road to Lachin, Reports 'Hraparak'

Azerbaijan has ramped up its efforts to construct an alternative road to Lachin. According to 'Hraparak', reports from Syunik indicate that the alternative route, which is expected to pass through Teghi and Khnzoresk, is nearing completion. About a month ago, Azerbaijani forces set up a checkpoint in an area that came under their control beneath the Khnzoresk community, and a customs post is also under construction a short distance away.

The construction of the alternative road is in line with the terms of the trilateral statement. Point six of the trilateral statement, signed by the leaders of Armenia, Russia, and Azerbaijan on November 10, 2020, states: 'The Republic of Armenia will return the Kalbajar region to the Republic of Azerbaijan by November 15, 2020, and the Lachin region by December 1, 2020. The Lachin corridor (5 km wide), which will ensure the connection between Nagorno-Karabakh and Armenia while not touching Shushi, will remain under the control of the peacekeeping mission of the Russian Federation.'

'In accordance with the agreement of the parties, a program for the construction of a new route through the Lachin corridor will be determined within the next three years, which will ensure connectivity between Stepanakert and Armenia, with the maintenance of this route to be facilitated by the redeployment of Russian peacekeeping forces. The Republic of Azerbaijan guarantees the safe passage of citizens, vehicles, and cargo in both directions through the Lachin corridor.'