Armenia-Turkey Checkpoint Reopening for Humanitarian Aid to Syria

The Armenian government will open the Margara checkpoint from March 21 to 31 for humanitarian aid to Syria, following discussions with Syrian officials. This move highlights ongoing improvements in Armenia-Turkey relations and addresses concerns for Syria’s ethnic minorities.

The Armenian government is set to open the Margara checkpoint between Armenia and Turkey from March 21 to 31, facilitating the transportation of humanitarian aid to Syria. This move follows discussions among Armenian and Syrian officials regarding the situation in Syria, particularly concerning its ethnic minorities.

Prior to the onset of the Syrian Civil War in 2011, around 100,000 Armenians lived in Syria, with 60,000 residing in Aleppo. As the regime of President Bashar al-Assad weakened in December 2024, fears grew about potential persecution of these minorities.

The Armenian government noted that the reopening of the Margara checkpoint would enable quick and cost-effective humanitarian aid delivery to Syria. The checkpoint had previously reopened in February 2023 after a 30-year closure to assist with aid following the Turkey-Syria earthquake.

Turkey had originally closed the border in 1993 amidst an embargo to pressure Armenia during the First Nagorno-Karabakh War. However, recent months have seen an improvement in Armenia-Turkey relations, highlighted by Prime Minister Pashinyan’s significant interview with Turkish journalists in March, where he acknowledged a favorable shift in diplomatic dialogue.

Pashinyan expressed optimism regarding potential advancements, including diplomatic relations, border openings for transport, and direct business connections.

The Margara checkpoint’s temporary opening marks a significant step in humanitarian aid efforts to Syria and reflects improved Armenia-Turkey relations. With historical context and recent developments noted, there is hope for further diplomatic progress between the two nations.

Original Source: oc-media.org