Armenia-Turkey Checkpoint to Open Temporarily for Humanitarian Aid to Syria
The Margara checkpoint between Armenia and Turkey will open from March 21-31 for humanitarian aid to Syria following discussions among officials. Prior to the Syrian Civil War, many Armenians lived in Syria. Concerns arise regarding the safety of minorities post-Assad. The decision also reflects an improvement in Armenia-Turkey relations, with hopes for diplomatic progress.
The Armenian government has announced the temporary opening of the Margara checkpoint between Armenia and Turkey from March 21 to March 31 for the purpose of transporting humanitarian aid to Syria. This decision followed discussions among Armenian and Syrian officials aimed at addressing urgent needs in Syria amidst ongoing humanitarian crises.
Before the onset of the Syrian Civil War in 2011, approximately 100,000 Armenians resided in Syria, with 60,000 specifically in Aleppo. The situation, particularly the downfall of President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, has raised concerns about the safety of ethnic minorities in Syria, as fears of persecution and reprisals grow.
According to Armenpress, the opening of the Margara checkpoint will facilitate the rapid and cost-effective delivery of humanitarian aid to Syria. Notably, this checkpoint was reinstated for humanitarian purposes previously in February 2023, following the devastating Turkey-Syria earthquake, primarily to assist Turkish regions affected by that disaster.
Historically, Turkey closed the border unilaterally in 1993 as part of an embargo designed to pressure Armenia to withdraw from Azerbaijani territory during the First Nagorno-Karabakh War. However, notably improved relations between Armenia and Turkey have emerged in recent months, contributing to this recent decision.
In March, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan engaged in a groundbreaking interview with Turkish journalists in Armenia, indicating ‘very direct dialogue’ between the nations—an aspect he described as a significant change from previous interactions. Pashinyan expressed his aspirations for continued advancements, which include establishing diplomatic relations and enabling open borders for transport and business ties.
The decision to temporarily open the Margara checkpoint reflects a significant humanitarian initiative to aid Syrian citizens amidst ongoing crises. It showcases potential progress in Armenia-Turkey relations, marked by recent political dialogues and hopes for future collaboration, including possible establishment of diplomatic relations and border accessibility. The reopening symbolizes a shift towards cooperative efforts in addressing humanitarian needs.
Original Source: oc-media.org
