Turkiye has completed preparations for the launch of direct trade with Armenia as part of the ongoing normalization process between the two countries. According to Turkish and Armenian sources, Ankara and Yerevan continue technical and diplomatic consultations related to the opening of land transport links and the simplification of trade mechanisms.

This marks an important stage in the rapprochement process between the two states, which have not had diplomatic relations since 1993. The border between Turkiye and Armenia has remained closed for more than three decades following the Karabakh conflict. However, since 2022, the two sides have been engaged in negotiations aimed at gradually normalizing relations. One of the key areas of discussion has been the restoration of transport and trade ties.

According to Turkish diplomatic sources, Turkiye has already completed a significant part of the bureaucratic preparations necessary for the launch of direct trade. Previously, a considerable portion of Turkish goods entered Armenia through Georgia via re-export schemes, which increased both costs and delivery times. The new system will allow trade to be carried out directly without intermediaries.

Particular attention is being paid to the opening of the Alican–Margara border crossing, which is viewed as one of the key elements of future transport connections between the two countries. In addition, the sides are discussing the restoration of railway links and the opening of the border for third-country nationals and holders of diplomatic passports.

 

Experts note that the normalization of Armenian-Turkish relations is closely linked to changes in regional geopolitics. Amid the transformation of Eurasian transport routes, instability in the Middle East, and the weakening of Russian influence in the South Caucasus, Ankara seeks to strengthen its role as a regional logistics and economic hub. For Armenia, the opening of the Turkish border could mean reduced dependence on existing routes through Georgia and Iran.

According to analysts, the launch of direct trade could significantly increase trade turnover between the two countries. Even now, Turkiye is among Armenia’s largest trading partners despite the absence of an officially open border. Economists also point out that the expansion of transport links could become one of the factors contributing to the long-term stabilization of the South Caucasus region.

#ARMENIA

#TURKIYE

12.05.2026 07:52