Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has announced new investments in the transportation sector, including the launch of a strategically important railway project aimed at boosting regional cooperation among Turkey, Armenia, and Azerbaijan, Factor.am reported, citing Anadolu Agency.
Speaking on August 22, Erdogan said construction has begun on the Kars–Igdir–Aralık–Dilucu railway, which he called a key part of the so-called “Zangezur Corridor”—a project he described as one of peace for the entire South Caucasus.
“With the implementation of all elements of the project, economic cooperation among Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Armenia will enter a new phase,” Erdogan said. The 224-kilometer railway will be dual-track, electrified, and equipped with signaling systems.
According to project estimates, the railway is expected to carry about 5.5 million passengers and up to 15 million tons of freight annually. The €2.4 billion initiative is expected to enhance trade efficiency across an international route stretching from China to the United Kingdom.
“The project will also link the Caspian and Mediterranean basins and significantly contribute to the industrial capacity, exports, and infrastructure development in Eastern and Southeastern Anatolia. I wish success to this railway line, which holds great importance for both our country and the region,” Erdogan added.
A recent official ceremony in Turkey marked the start of construction on the 224-kilometer line that will eventually connect Kars and Nakhchivan. Turkish Transport Minister Abdulkadir Uraloğlu stated that the line would become part of the so-called “Zangezur Corridor” transport network.
In response, Armenia’s Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure, Davit Khudatyan, emphasized that only infrastructure projects proposed, approved, or endorsed by the Armenian government can operate on Armenian territory. He added that “Zangezur Corridor” should enhance economic cooperation among Turkey, Armenia, and Azerbaijan.
