Interconnected markets and societies can strengthen long-term stability and prosperity in the South Caucasus, says Marta Kos

Progress in peace negotiations between Azerbaijan and Armenia is reshaping the political and economic landscape of the South Caucasus, EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos told the European bureau of an Azerbaijani news outlet.

According to Kos, who recently returned from a regional visit, the region now has a real opportunity — for the first time in decades — to open trade and transport routes connecting Europe and Asia. “Countries stretching from Europe to the borders of China recognize the importance of this moment. Today they have all gathered here in Luxembourg. This is happening for the first time,” she stated.

A ministerial meeting on regional security and interconnectivity is being held today in Luxembourg, with Azerbaijan represented by Deputy Foreign Minister Yalchin Rafiyev.

The European Commissioner noted that EU member states intend to develop new connectivity infrastructure. “Our work is an investment in peace. Concrete cooperation, interconnected markets, and interconnected societies can strengthen long-term stability and prosperity in the South Caucasus,” Kos said.

She added that the Luxembourg meeting is only the first step — an investment forum with the United States will follow in November.