Armenia Committed to Normalizing Relations with Turkey and Reopening Borders: Khostanyan

On June 28, Vahan Khostanyan, Deputy Foreign Minister of Armenia, participated online and delivered a speech at the 48th meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation Organization. He outlined the priorities of Armenia's presidency in the BSEC, emphasizing the country's commitment to supporting constructive dialogue and the exchange of best practices within the framework of the organization. This was reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia.

In his speech, Khostanyan stated, “Dear Secretary General, Your Excellencies, esteemed colleagues, I would first like to express my gratitude to the government of the Republic of Albania for leading the organization during its presidency, as well as for efforts aimed at promoting dialogue and cooperation within the BSEC framework. We sincerely thank Secretary General Lazar Comănescu and the staff of the BSEC permanent international secretariat for their work to strengthen the organization’s effectiveness and for the support provided to member states.

I am convinced that the effective implementation of the BSEC's main objectives, particularly the promotion of inclusive regional economic cooperation and trade facilitation, is crucial for maintaining regional peace and stability. As Armenia assumes the presidency of the BSEC, I would like to reaffirm our commitment to supporting constructive dialogue and the exchange of best practices aimed at expanding regional economic cooperation, in accordance with the statutory objectives of the organization.

I would also like to emphasize the importance of a project-based approach in all BSEC areas, as outlined in the 'BSEC Economic Agenda.' Armenia will continue to support initiatives carried out under the BSEC mandate, including through the Programs Development Fund.

It is also important to note that Armenia's presidency will advocate for stronger cooperation and coordination between the BSEC organization and its affiliated bodies, with the aim of improving their synchronization, complementarity, and overall harmonization of activities.

Esteemed colleagues, the economy of the Republic of Armenia has recorded significant growth in recent years. Armenia’s economy has grown by nearly 30 percent, and state budget revenues have increased by more than 91 percent. Additionally, approximately 200,000 new jobs have been created, marking a nearly 37 percent increase in the total number of jobs. Per capita GDP has nearly doubled. There has been a significant increase in foreign trade with several BSEC member countries.

With these impressive and encouraging figures regarding economic growth, we must note that unprecedented challenges to regional peace and security remain and seriously disrupt progress toward achieving stable socio-economic development in the Black Sea region.

Armenia is committed to normalizing relations with neighboring countries. As a landlocked developing country, with its borders blocked from the East and West for more than three decades, Armenia fully understands the importance of promoting inclusive and equitable regional and cross-border communication based on international law.

It is in this understanding that our country has constructively engaged in peaceful negotiations with Azerbaijan regarding the mutual recognition of territorial integrity and the implementation of the delimitation process based on the 1991 Alma-Ata Declaration, as well as the opening of regional communications while respecting each state’s sovereignty and jurisdiction and adhering to the principles of equality and reciprocity, as agreed upon by the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan in Brussels in May and July 2023.

Armenia is sincerely committed to finalizing negotiations and signing the Agreement within a month, and we urge Azerbaijan to reciprocate this constructive approach and refrain from creating artificial obstacles.

Armenia is also committed to normalizing relations with Turkey and reopening land borders. In this regard, we are ready to take all necessary steps to implement the agreements reached by special representatives, maintain the current positive momentum, and move forward for the benefit of both countries and the region.

Your Excellencies, fully committed to establishing stable peace in the South Caucasus and realizing the region's potential through promoting trade and transport links between the East and West, South and North to enhance economic and cultural exchanges, Armenia has presented the 'Peace Crossroad' initiative.

As part of our peace agenda, this project aims to develop communication between the countries of the region by renovating, constructing, and operating roads, railways, pipelines, cables, and electric lines, thus opening new opportunities for the movement of cargo, goods, and citizens and significantly expanding our region's integration into global transport networks. We are convinced that the 'Peace Crossroad' initiative can bring enormous benefits to all countries in the Black Sea region.

In conclusion, I would like to reaffirm Armenia's commitment to promoting mutually beneficial cooperation within the framework of the Organization aimed at innovative and sustainable development. We are confident that regional economic cooperation guided by the principles outlined in the BSEC charter can contribute to the strengthening of peace, stability, prosperity, and welfare of the peoples of the Black Sea region. Thank you.”

As a result of the meeting, several resolutions and decisions were adopted. BSEC member states wished success to Armenia regarding its upcoming presidency in the organization.