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Türkiye, Armenia take historic step toward normalization at border

Türkiye-Armenia Special Envoy Ambassador Serdar Kilic meets Ruben Rubinyan, Armenia’s special envoy for normalization, at the Armenia–Türkiye border in their first official meeting in years. Sept. 12, 2025. (Turkiye Daily Photo)
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Türkiye-Armenia Special Envoy Ambassador Serdar Kilic meets Ruben Rubinyan, Armenia’s special envoy for normalization, at the Armenia–Türkiye border in their first official meeting in years. Sept. 12, 2025. (Turkiye Daily Photo)
September 12, 2025 10:52 AM GMT+03:00

Türkiye and Armenia marked a historic step in their normalization process as senior representatives met at the border for the first time in years.

Ambassador Serdar Kilic, Türkiye’s special envoy for the normalization process, was formally received by Armenia’s special representative Ruben Rubinyan at the Margara crossing point.

An aerial view of construction of roads and railways continuing that they will pass through the Zangezur Corridor, which will connect the western provinces with Nakhchivan and will also be one of the routes of the Central Corridor extending from China to Central Asia, the Caspian Sea, the Caucasus and Türkiye, on October 09, 2023 in Zangilan, Azerbaijan. (AA Photo)
An aerial view of construction of roads and railways continuing that they will pass through the Zangezur Corridor, which will connect the western provinces with Nakhchivan and will also be one of the routes of the Central Corridor extending from China to Central Asia, the Caspian Sea, the Caucasus and Türkiye, on October 09, 2023 in Zangilan, Azerbaijan. (AA Photo)

Kilic highlights Zangezur corridor

Ahead of his trip, Kilic addressed the press in Igdir, emphasizing the strategic significance of the Zangezur corridor. He described it as “a vital route not only between Armenia and Türkiye, but also as a gateway to Central Asia and Turkic republics,” underscoring its potential for regional connectivity.

Kilic said that Armenian officials have expressed readiness to move forward, adding, “Today they declared, ‘We are ready to open the border.’ There are no political obstacles; only technical preparations remain before concrete actions can be taken.”

Economic boost for Igdir and Kars

Kilic stressed the potential economic benefits for border provinces, noting, “Our greatest wish is to contribute to the economies of both countries, especially Igdir and Kars.” He added that activation of the Zangezur corridor is expected to stimulate significant economic revival in the region.

Igdir Governor Ercan Turan highlighted Türkiye’s ongoing constructive diplomacy with neighboring countries. He mentioned the Alican border gate and the recent groundwork for the 124-kilometer Dilucu–Kars railway, which will link to the broader corridor project.

International attention

The historic meeting has drawn international attention, with observers noting its significance for regional stability and trade.

Analysts say the corridor could facilitate broader cooperation in energy, logistics, and commerce, potentially strengthening Türkiye-Armenia relations and opening new routes to Central Asia.

September 12, 2025 10:52 AM GMT+03:00
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