Deputy PM: New Russia–Armenia rail link boosts South Caucasus peace

The launch of a new railroad connection between Russia and Armenia via the territories of Azerbaijan and Georgia marks a significant step toward consolidating peace and stability in the South Caucasus, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk told journalists, according to TASS.

Earlier, the first shipment of Russian wheat was successfully delivered to Armenia using this new transport corridor.

“We welcome the start of railroad communication between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Armenia through the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Georgia,” Overchuk said, emphasising the importance of the development.

He noted that for the first time since Armenia’s independence, direct railway communication has been established between Russia and Armenia.

According to Overchuk, the event represents “a real, tangible contribution to the establishment of peace in the South Caucasus,” and stands as further proof of Russia’s efforts to promote regional stability and foster the economic development of all states in the region.

Overchuk highlighted that the new route strengthens Russia’s transport connectivity with South Caucasus countries, expands access for Armenian markets to goods from other member states of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), and simultaneously enhances access for Armenian producers to the markets of the Union.

“It is symbolic that the first cargo transported along this route was Russian grain — one of the most important symbols of life and creation. It once again underscores our shared aspiration to establish peace in the South Caucasus and to move from confrontation to cooperation,” Overchuk added.

The deputy prime minister stressed that the opening of the new railway line was made possible thanks to the agreements reached in 2020 and 2021 by the leaders of Russia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan, as well as the persistent work of the trilateral working group co-chaired by the deputy prime ministers of the three countries.

“I would like to express my gratitude to my colleagues — Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Shahin Mustafayev and Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Mher Grigoryan — for their joint efforts in unblocking transport links in the South Caucasus region, and to Georgia for its constructive participation in organising transportation along this route,” Overchuk concluded.

By Tamilla Hasanova