The Zangezur Corridor: Regional peace and global connectivity
The Zangezur Corridor is a test case for the region, writes Dr Matin Mammadli of the Centre for the Analysis of International Relations in Baku in an article for Euronews. It could link Azerbaijan with Nakhchivan, strengthen trade between Europe and Asia, and lay an economic foundation for peace.
The Zangezur Corridor represents more than just a direct land connection between mainland Azerbaijan and the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic; it has the potential to reshape economic relations across the South Caucasus. The October 2020 Trilateral Statement and subsequent developments, such as the Washington understandings of August 2025, underscore the importance of regional connectivity, peace, and normalization.
Azerbaijan’s investment in rail and road projects, as well as efforts to improve links to Nakhchivan, demonstrate a commitment to turning political openings into functional routes. The corridor could also serve as a strategic hub, complementing existing assets like the Baku International Sea Trade Port and the Baku–Tbilisi-Kars railway, thereby enhancing Azerbaijan’s role as a Caspian hub.
In the broader context of the Middle Corridor, the Zangezur Corridor could contribute to diversification and resilience, potentially tripling freight volumes by 2030 and halving transit times. Europe’s interest in resilient supply chains and strengthened links with Central Asia further supports the project’s potential.
Brief written by urgent.news from Euronews's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
