AZG Armenian Daily #129, 14/07/2005

Study

TURKEY WILL DEVELOP EASTERN REGIONS, ARMENIA WILL REDUCE
TRANSPORTATION EXPENSES

If Only Armenian-Turkish Border Opens

A study conducted by the Armenian-European Policy and Legal Advice
Center (AEPLAC), a research center funded by the European Union
arrived at a conclusion that the opening of Armenian-Turkish border
can be beneficial for both Armenia and Turkey.

Yesterday, the AEPLAC’s executive director, Tigran Jrbashian,
represented conclusions of the study concerning the external trade of
Armenia. He mentioned key positive effects of an open border:
reduction of transportation expenses and increase of trade flow. The
open border will become an alternative to importing and exporting
goods through Turkey’s Mediterranean harbors, which will cost
incomparably cheaper than through Georgia.

Tigran Jrbashian said that the open border will boost Armenian export,
will increase GDP, will bring in more investments and will create more
real chances to integrate into the EU.

Turkey, on its part, will be able to use Armenia’s transit roads,
particularly the Kars-Gyumri railway. This is the greatest positive
effect that Turkey can have, Jrbashian thinks. Goods turnover between
Armenia and Turkey will enable the latter to develop its eastern
provinces.

Deputy economy and trade minister, Davit Avetisian, dubbed the study
“unique”. “We had great expectations and they came true” he said.

By Aghavni Harutyunian