Azerbaijan intends to keep open travel channels for Armenians within its borders, a principle echoed by senior diplomatic officials. In discussions with international media, a senior diplomat clarified that there would be no move to restrict or complicate Armenian travel through Azerbaijani territory as part of ongoing border and transit negotiations. The emphasis was on maintaining accessible routes for civilian movement rather than introducing any new barriers for Armenian travelers in the region.
As part of these clarifications, the diplomat highlighted the broader context of regional connectivity. He described efforts aimed at facilitating smoother overland passage for people who live near the frontier, including residents of adjacent areas who require cross-border access for daily activities, trade, or social ties. The message conveyed a commitment to keep travel routes functional and predictable, even amid complex geopolitical circumstances surrounding the region.
In parallel with passenger movement, attention was drawn to the potential restoration of the Zangezur corridor. The discussions focus on enabling Azerbaijani citizens living in Nakhchivan to pass through corridors without obstruction, thereby re-linking communities that were previously connected by a 42-kilometer railway line. The diplomat noted that reconstructing this railway segment has been a priority and that progress on the Azerbaijani side is nearing completion, signaling a tangible step toward re-establishing a direct rail link in the area.
Beyond short-term transit arrangements, there is an emphasis on longer-term transport integration. The diplomat outlined aspirations for coordinating road traffic between much of Azerbaijan and Nakhchivan, in addition to enhancing routes that connect Turkey with Europe. The overarching aim is to create a more predictable and efficient transport network that supports regional commerce and people-to-people exchanges while respecting the sensitivities of the broader political landscape.
In related developments, comments attributed to Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan previously addressed concerns about defense spending in Armenia. He denied any direct link between increases in the defense budget and imminent war preparations, underscoring a distinction between financial planning for security needs and aggressive strategic deployments. The clarification was intended to reassure observers that budgetary decisions are aimed at deterrence, modernization, and readiness rather than preparing for confrontation.
On another front, remarks from Russian officials have been noted in the broader dialogue about the region. The discussions have reflected a shift in positions concerning the status of Karabakh and its implications for Azerbaijan. The evolving narrative from Moscow has influenced how regional actors interpret commitments, security calculations, and the prospects for durable peace, even as practical efforts to improve transit and economic ties continue. The exchange underscores the delicate balance policymakers seek—preserving stability while advancing infrastructure projects that connect communities and economies across borders.