Yerevan, September 7 – A significant two-day meeting between Armenian and Turkish business representatives took place in Yerevan on September 3-4, marking a crucial step towards normalizing relations and fostering economic cooperation between the two countries. The event, supported by an EU grant, saw 80 businesspeople from the Van Chamber of Commerce and Industry engaging with their Armenian counterparts.
Discussions Focused on Mutual Trade and Investment
The joint statement from the Union of Manufacturers and Businessmen of Armenia and the Van Chamber of Commerce and Industry highlighted trade as one of the most powerful tools for strengthening mutual trust. During the Yerevan program, participants explored opportunities for mutual trade and investment, as well as prospects for developing economic relations.
According to media reports, approximately 150 Turkish businesspeople participated in the forum, with their expenses covered by the EU grant. 120 Armenian business representatives also attended the event.
Economic Development for Border Regions and Cities
Both organizations believe that the development of economic and trade relations between Armenia and Turkey will significantly contribute to the economic and social development of border regions, as well as cities like Van and Yerevan.
Key points emphasized by the Union of Manufacturers and Businessmen of Armenia and the Van Chamber of Commerce and Industry included the opening of border checkpoints and the mutual facilitation of border crossings.
Previous Meetings Paved the Way for Cooperation
This Yerevan meeting follows previous Armenian-Turkish business gatherings held in Kars on June 2 and in Van on July 1. Those discussions primarily focused on cooperation opportunities in the transport, logistics, tourism, and trade sectors.
Future Prospects and Challenges
While the forum represents a positive step, the path to full economic normalization remains complex. The emphasis on opening border checkpoints underscores the practical challenges that still need to be addressed to facilitate smoother trade and movement of goods and people. The EU’s involvement through grants highlights international support for these efforts to build bridges between the two nations.
The discussions in Yerevan are expected to lay the groundwork for further engagements, with both sides expressing a desire to continue dialogue and explore concrete projects that can translate these aspirations into tangible economic benefits for both Armenia and Turkey.
