The Margara checkpoint between Armenia and Turkey will be temporarily opened from March 21 to 31 for humanitarian aid to Syria, following discussions between officials. This decision responds to humanitarian needs amid concern for ethnic minorities in Syria after the recent governmental changes. Improved relations between Armenia and Turkey are also noted, with hopeful prospects for further diplomatic engagement.
The Margara checkpoint between Armenia and Turkey will be operational from March 21 to 31 to facilitate humanitarian aid shipments to Syria, as announced by the Armenian government. This move was made after discussions between Armenian and Syrian officials concerning the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Syria.
Historically, before the Syrian Civil War began in 2011, around 100,000 Armenians resided in Syria, with a significant population of 60,000 in Aleppo. Concerns have arisen following the downfall of President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, particularly regarding the potential threats to ethnic minorities in Syria, who may face persecution.
According to Armenpress, the opening of the Margara checkpoint will allow for the efficient and cost-effective delivery of humanitarian aid to Syria. Notably, this checkpoint saw its first reopening in February 2023 after 30 years, following the Turkey-Syria earthquake, primarily to assist affected Turkish regions.
The border was originally closed by Turkey in 1993 due to an embargo intended to pressure Armenia regarding territorial disputes linked to the First Nagorno-Karabakh War. However, in recent months, Armenia-Turkey relations have improved significantly.
Prime Minister Pashinyan highlighted this positive shift in a March interview with Turkish journalists, indicating a transformative ‘very direct dialogue’ between the two nations. He expressed optimism about achieving further diplomatic advancements, reopening borders for rail and road transport, and fostering direct business connections.
The Margara checkpoint’s temporary opening reflects a growing humanitarian effort and potentially improving diplomatic relations between Armenia and Turkey. The decision aims to provide essential aid to the Syrian population amid ongoing challenges, especially concerning minority protection following governmental changes. Continued dialogue and cooperation between Armenia and Turkey may pave the way for future progress in bilateral relations.
Original Source: oc-media.org
