Armenia's Deputy PM Foresees Prolonged Process in Border Delimitation & Demarcation with Azerbaijan

Armenian Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan shed light on the progress made in the border delimitation talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan. This discussion occurred within the framework of the meeting of the Armenian-Russian intergovernmental commission, where Grigoryan elaborated on the work procedures established to organize meetings and sessions between the border delimitation commissions of both nations.

Grigoryan highlighted the essence of these procedures, emphasizing the joint nature of the meetings between the commissions from Armenia and Azerbaijan. "We considered it right to regulate the process of that work; in particular, when we meet, where we meet, how we draw up the minutes [of that meeting], in what language we speak, etc. We will speak in English or Russian, both are possible," stated Grigoryan.

Moreover, he pointed out that according to the work procedure, meetings could also take place in a third country, as previously experienced with gatherings held in Brussels and Moscow.

Grigoryan emphasized the complexity of the border delimitation and demarcation process, anticipating a prolonged timeline. "I cannot rule out that it is years of work," he acknowledged. The methodical approach involves examining maps and legal documents related to border descriptions during commission meetings, ensuring a meticulous discussion piece by piece.

Addressing inquiries about the specific maps used for border delimitation, Grigoryan reiterated, "We accept the most recent maps of 1975-1990 as our starting point and will solely rely on topographical, professional maps and legally significant documents."

In another development, Grigoryan discussed the Crossroads of Peace project, highlighting ongoing infrastructural initiatives like the North-South road and the pending research required for the remaining project segments. He cited an expert opinion estimating around 230 million US dollars equivalent for the complete restoration of the southern Horadiz-Yeraskh railway.

However, Grigoryan clarified that no definitive timeframes have been set for the subsequent meetings of the border delimitation commissions of Armenia and Azerbaijan. "The work will be different at every phase, making standard timeframes irrelevant. The next meeting might focus on regulations, methodology, definitions, and could be more intricate, demanding additional internal circulation time," Grigoryan explained, indicating that the timing of subsequent meetings hinges on the content agreed upon after each phase.