The Armenian government will temporarily open the Margara checkpoint from March 21 to March 31 to enable humanitarian aid shipments to Syria. This decision stems from discussions between Armenian and Syrian officials. Prior concerns for Syrian ethnic minorities have arisen following political changes in Syria. The checkpoint reopening marks a potential improvement in Armenia-Turkey relations.
The Armenian government has declared the Margara checkpoint between Armenia and Turkey will operate from March 21 to March 31 to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to Syria. This decision followed discussions among Armenian and Syrian officials, reflecting a cooperative effort in response to current humanitarian needs.
Prior to the Syrian Civil War in 2011, around 100,000 Armenians resided in Syria, predominantly in Aleppo. The escalating conflict has raised concerns for Syria’s ethnic minorities, with many fearing the potential for persecution following President Bashar al-Assad’s downfall in December 2024.
Armenpress has indicated that reopening the Margara checkpoint will streamline the delivery of aid to Syria, potentially reducing costs and accelerating the assistance process. The checkpoint had previously been opened in February 2023, marking the first occasion following its closure for nearly three decades, primarily for humanitarian relief in Turkish areas affected by an earthquake.
The border was initially closed by Turkey in 1993 as part of a strategy to pressure Armenia regarding territorial disputes during the First Nagorno-Karabakh War. However, recent months have indicated an improvement in Armenia-Turkey relations, as articulated by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.
In March, Pashinyan granted an unprecedented interview to Turkish journalists, where he acknowledged a significant shift in the dialogue between the two nations, expressing optimism for further advancements that include establishing diplomatic relations, reopening the border for transportation, and fostering direct business connections.
In summary, the Margara checkpoint’s temporary opening for humanitarian aid reflects a new cooperative phase in Armenia-Turkey relations. This initiative not only aims to assist those affected in Syria but also signifies a potential shift towards diplomatic engagement and improved ties between Armenia and Turkey.
Original Source: oc-media.org
