Report's chief: 3+3 platform may become stepping stone towards unlocking regional connectivity in S.Caucasus

The 3+3 platform could play a crucial role not only in establishing lasting peace in the South Caucasus but also in opening up regional communications between Azerbaijan and Armenia, which have remained closed until now, Fuad Huseynaliyev, the director of Report News Agency, said during a live broadcast on CBC TV.

Huseynaliyev pointed out that Armenia has long been excluded from regional projects due to its occupation of Azerbaijani territories. However, the 3+3 platform could facilitate Armenia's involvement in transport initiatives in the South Caucasus.

"Armenia has been left out of regional projects for a long time and is now seeking to be involved to a certain extent. However, it is worth noting that its efforts have not yet transitioned into the practical stage," he stated.

"The 3+3 format provides Armenia with an opportunity to participate in transport and logistics projects, which could be followed by larger initiatives. These could include the transit of electricity and other energy resources, as well as the transportation of goods in general. This format could also contribute to the establishment of communications, allowing it to become one of the branches of the Middle Corridor, thus opening up wide opportunities for new projects," Report's chief said.

Huseynaliyev emphasized that for Armenia to fully participate in regional processes, real steps from Yerevan are necessary to conclude a peace agreement with Baku. "First of all, for Armenia's full involvement in regional projects, it is necessary to conclude a peace treaty with Azerbaijan," he added.

"The negotiation process has been going on for quite a long time. In words, they [official Yerevan] express readiness to sign a peace agreement even today. But when it comes to real actions, they omit important articles that are fundamental for Azerbaijan," Huseynaliyev said.

The director of Report stressed that Azerbaijan has already presented its proposals, and it is important to consider them to achieve real progress, as Baku's proposals create the basis for a lasting and, most importantly, the soonest peace. Concluding peace with Azerbaijan will also allow Armenia to normalize relations with Türkiye and thus become part of various regional projects.