Preparatory Work Underway for Opening Checkpoint on Armenia-Turkey Border: Hulusi Akar

Currently, preparations are underway for the opening of the Alichan-Margara control checkpoint on the Armenia-Turkey border. This was stated by Turkey’s Minister of National Defense Hulusi Akar in an article titled "The Caucasus region: A unique opportunity for peace and reconciliation," published by TRT World on Twitter.

"We have already taken positive steps, including appointing special representatives and agreeing to establish joint checkpoints for citizens and diplomats from third countries. Direct freight transport is another concrete outcome of preliminary diplomatic contacts," he said.

Akar emphasized that the complete normalization of relations between Armenia and its neighbors, Azerbaijan and Turkey, will create new opportunities for all peoples in the Caucasus region, overcoming historical animosities and paving the way for strong friendship and cooperation.

It is worth noting that the checkpoint was activated in February of this year when Armenian rescuers transported humanitarian aid to the areas affected by devastating earthquakes in Turkey. "We thank the people and government of Armenia for their assistance during that difficult time," Akar said.

According to him, the peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia will also contribute to the full normalization of Armenian-Turkish relations.