After Azerbaijan liberated its lands from occupation during the Second Karabakh War, the Tripartite Declaration was signed on November 10. In addition to all other issues, the document provides for the opening of all transport and communication lines in the region, as well as the connection of Nakhchivan with the greater part of Azerbaijan via the Zangezur corridor. After that, Azerbaijan and Turkey signed the Shusha Declaration and expressed their full support for each other on this and other issues.
These words Oku.AzSpeaking about Iran’s objection to Russia’s recent support for the opening of the Zangezur Corridor, former head of the Intelligence Department of the General Staff of the Turkish Armed Forces, Colonel General (Lieutenant General) Ismail Haqq Beijing saying.
Beijing said Iran fears Azerbaijan’s strengthening.
“The opening of the Zangezur corridor will bring about major changes in trade relations. At this point, Iran’s main fear is related to the country’s internal and political-economic relations. Officials in Tehran consider the Zangezur corridor to be a disadvantage for itself and think that if it is opened, it will pose a threat to the South Caucasian country. The position is almost the same as that of Turkey. They also want the opening of all trade and transport routes. Now trade with Central Asia will be carried out through Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan will strengthen and strengthen its position. Despite the fact that the Azerbaijani state has repeatedly expressed its intentions, goals and directions of action, Iran is still afraid. The fact that Abbas Araqchi mentioned the red lines a few days ago is a manifestation of both fear and protest against Russia’s recent measures.”
The colonel general said that the differences of opinion that have arisen will not lead to strong tensions between Iran and Russia.
“I do not think that the problem between Tehran and Moscow will lead to the separation of the two countries. However, I think that a formula will be found that will be accepted by all parties. Because there is the problem of transferring natural gas and oil and bringing it to the world market. Therefore, a peace agreement should be signed soon, the Zangezur corridor and other routes should be opened. It is necessary to enter the world market without delay. This is vital for Russia. They want a new conflict in the South Caucasus. In addition, the Zangezur corridor will be connected to the “Inkishaf Yolu” corridor, which will lead to economic revival. Like Iran, Turkey and Azerbaijan have also applied to become members of BRICS, but this issue itself opens up additional room for maneuver towards its solution. Leaving aside the problems of the past, it is possible to find a solution that everyone agrees with. Although it is not clear when it will happen, a big war is coming, everyone is choosing sides and the whole world is preparing for it. “That’s why we have to solve problems and increase our strength.”
Beijing stressed the need to open the Zangezur Corridor.
“It is very important that Turkey, Russia and Azerbaijan have the same position on the issue of the Zangezur corridor. However, it would be naive to believe that Iran will draw its own conclusions from here and completely change its direction towards the West. Negotiation is possible, because diplomacy is always based on a policy of balance. In my opinion, Turkey, Azerbaijan and Russia should intensify their diplomatic efforts in this direction. At the present stage, the attempt to open the Zangezur corridor by force can upset the balance. In the region, therefore, problems must be solved through diplomacy. The corridor will definitely open. It is possible to console, but it is impossible to block the opening of the corridor.”
Sohrab Ismail
