Washington Event Will Be Transformative for the Entire Region: Kostanyan

During the Antalya Diplomatic Forum, Armenia's Deputy Foreign Minister Vahan Kostanyan participated in a panel discussion dedicated to the strategic perspectives of the region. According to the Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the panel titled “South Caucasus: Emerging Strategic Hub” also included Azerbaijan's presidential assistant Hikmet Hajiyev, Head of the Government Administration of Georgia Levan Jorjoliani, and Turkey’s chief advisor Akif Kılıç.

Addressing the possibilities for peace with neighboring countries, Vahan Kostanyan congratulated his Turkish counterparts for organizing the forum and emphasized the new dynamics present in the region. He pointed out that while previous meetings between representatives of Armenia and Azerbaijan were expected to end in conflict, now representatives from four countries are discussing a common future and cooperation.

According to the Deputy Minister, the events that took place in Washington on August 8 of last year will be transformative for the entire region. Kostanyan highlighted that the current stability in the South Caucasus presents a significant competitive advantage amid global uncertainties. He called for the opening of communications through political decisions, turning the region into a connecting link between Europe, Central Asia, and the Far East.

He indicated that peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan is a crucial guarantee of the independence and sovereignty of both countries. Speaking about positive examples of cooperation, the Deputy Foreign Minister noted that institutionalizing peace requires daily investment. He informed about the trade that has begun with Azerbaijan and expressed hope that exports of Armenian goods would commence in the near future.

As areas of cooperation, he identified energy security, including the TRIP project with the United States, as well as the development of transportation and energy networks. Armenia is interested in becoming a transit hub and participating in the Black Sea underwater project.

Referring to relations with the European Union, Kostanyan stated that Armenia has European aspirations and is working towards sectoral integration. He recalled the law passed last year to begin the process of EU membership. Regarding the timelines for integration, he noted that it is currently impossible to speak about the 2028 timeline, as extensive reforms need to be implemented first.

In concluding his remarks, Vahan Kostanyan noted that all the speakers in the discussion have open minds but added that open borders are also required, expressing hope for change in that regard in the near future.