Armenia to temporarily open the Margara checkpoint to transport humanitarian aid to Syria from March 21-31. This decision follows discussions with Syrian officials amid rising concerns for ethnic minorities after Assad’s fall. The reopening is seen as an opportunity for more efficient aid delivery while also reflecting improving relations between Armenia and Turkey, highlighted by Prime Minister Pashinyan’s recent interview.
The Armenian government has announced the temporary opening of the Margara checkpoint between Armenia and Turkey from March 21 to March 31, aimed at facilitating the transport of humanitarian aid to Syria. This decision follows discussions between Armenian and Syrian officials, reflecting a commitment to assist a vulnerable population.
Prior to the Syrian Civil War in 2011, approximately 100,000 Armenians resided in Syria, with a significant population in Aleppo. Concerns persist regarding the safety of ethnic minorities in Syria, especially after President Bashar al-Assad’s downfall in December 2024, prompting fears of potential persecution.
According to reports, the checkpoint’s opening presents an opportunity to deliver humanitarian aid more efficiently and cost-effectively. The Margara checkpoint was first reopened in February 2023, following a 30-year closure, to assist regions in Turkey affected by an earthquake.
The border had initially been closed in 1993 as part of an embargo during the First Nagorno-Karabakh War. However, recent developments indicate a smoother trajectory in Armenia-Turkey relations, highlighted by Prime Minister Pashinyan’s unprecedented interview with Turkish journalists in March, where he emphasized a significant shift in dialogue between the two nations.
Pashinyan expressed optimism for advancing diplomatic ties, suggesting initiatives to reopen borders for transportation and foster direct business connections, marking a hopeful evolution in bilateral relations.
The upcoming temporary opening of the Margara checkpoint underscores Armenia’s commitment to humanitarian assistance amid ongoing challenges in Syria. The historical context of Armenia-Turkey relations shows progress that may enhance cooperation and dialogue in various sectors, indicating a potential positive shift for both nations. The situation remains dynamic, with significant implications for the safety and welfare of ethnic minorities in Syria.
Original Source: oc-media.org
