Lithuania extends its expertise to Baku, Yerevan on communication unblockage

The Republic of Lithuania has been actively sharing its expertise with both Yerevan and Baku regarding the unblocking of communications, particularly within the transit scheme involving the Kaliningrad region of the Russian Federation.

According to Caliber.Az, Lithuanian Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Armenia, Andrius Pulokas, highlighted Lithuania's geographical similarity with Armenia, emphasizing the potential for mutual learning.

Drawing parallels between the opening of communications between Armenia and Azerbaijan and Lithuania's established experience with the Russian Federation in similar contexts, the Ambassador remarked, "The Kaliningrad region of the Russian Federation, like the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, is an exclave requiring crucial communication links with the mainland. Lithuania's EU membership has been pivotal in this regard." He further elaborated on the successful Kaliningrad transit scheme, facilitated by agreements between the EU, Lithuania, and Russia. Despite challenges such as the conflict in Ukraine, residents of the Russian mainland and the Kaliningrad region continue to benefit from transit through Lithuania.

In highlighting the EU's significant role in brokering agreements with the Russian Federation, the Ambassador underscored the importance of diplomatic efforts in facilitating communication channels.

Ambassador Pulokas underlined that the parties agreed on two main components of this communication: full control of Lithuania on its territory and maximum comfort for travellers during transit without unnecessary obstacles.

"I believe that some elements of this so-called simplified transit model can be useful for regulating the movement of people through Armenia. After all, this is a European experience and a successful model," the Ambassador noted, adding that Lithuania has repeatedly shared its experience with both Yerevan and Baku.