Tehran: Work carried out in connection with the Araz Corridor and the importance of the corridor have been disclosed, APA’s correspondent dispatched to Iran reports. Deputy Prime Minister Shahin Mustafayev noted that after Azerbaijan’s glorious victory, its lands were liberated from occupation and as a result, a new geopolitical situation emerged in the region: “At the same time, this created new and vast opportunities in the field of transport and logistics. Azerbaijan immediately began work to utilize these opportunities.”
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, a corresponding Memorandum of Understanding was signed with the Government of Iran in March 2022. This Memorandum aimed at creating infrastructure that would connect Azerbaijan’s Eastern Zangezur region with the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic through Iranian territory. As a first step, construction of a road bridge began near the Aghbend village of Azerbaijan and the Kelaleh village of Iran. The construction of this bridge will be completed by the end of the year.
The Deputy Prime Minister further detailed plans to complete the customs and border infrastructure by the Novruz holiday next year. The operation of the new Araz Corridor will then be launched, providing a shorter connection between Azerbaijan and the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. It will also serve as a new branch of the North-South Transport Corridor, enabling the transportation of cargo from Russia to the Gulf. Additionally, it will become a new branch of the East-West Transport Corridor, connecting the Gulf with the Black Sea.
Highlighting the geographical scope, Mustafayev mentioned areas such as Aghbend, Zangilan, Jabrayil, Fuzuli, Aghdam, Yevlakh, the Georgian border, and the Black Sea. The climate and terrain are favorable for year-round use of the corridor, offering Azerbaijan new geopolitical opportunities and expanding economic relations. This development will also enable active economic activity in the liberated territories and provide opportunities for displaced persons returning there. The corridor will be beneficial for Azerbaijan, neighboring countries, and the region.