SHORTAGES OF FUEL AND WHEAT IN ARMENIA
By M. Alkhazashvili
The Messenger
Aug 26 2008
Georgia
Russia’s intervention in Georgia and its deliberate damaging of
Georgia’s transport infrastructure have caused serious problems to
Russia’s strategic partner Armenia. That country receives many of its
essential goods by cargo through Georgia. The suspension of transit
caused by damage to Georgia’s transport infrastructure has created
a shortage of certain products in Armenia, most importantly fuel
and wheat.
To try and alleviate the fuel shortage the Armenian Energy Minister
has traveled to Iran, although agreeing to obtain fuel from there
would be a difficult step to take as it would be more expensive than
getting it through Georgia.
There are currently 37 petrol tankers in Batumi which could be used to
transport fuel to Armenia. The Batumi terminal however is storing 1,800
tonnes of petrol which is due for delivery to that country. Armenia
is therefore sending 40 extra petrol tankers to Batumi. One of six
carriages of wheat intended for Armenia is also stranded in Georgia
due to Russia’s damage of the railways.
Both Armenia and Azerbaijan are vitally interested in the prompt
restoration of the Georgian railway system. Specialists from both
countries are assisting Georgia to reconstruct it.