Restoration of the Aghdam-Khankendi road is only the first stage

Recent discussions surrounding the Aghdam-Khankyandi road as an alternative supply route to Karabakh have gained prominence, with Baku and Brussels backing this initiative as a crucial step in the reintegration process for the region and its people.

Despite opposition from Yerevan and separatist leaders, Baku remains steadfast in not compromising on this significant matter. The Lachin road will be retained for personal trips to Armenia and for medical purposes, while transportation of certain goods or large items will require coordination with Baku beforehand. Only after obtaining consent will these goods be allowed to pass through Aghdam. Possible options for delivering goods to Aghdam include by rail through Ijevan–Gazakh, and further to Barda and Aghdam. The Barda–Aghdam section is currently under active restoration, and it may eventually connect to Askeran and the existing railway to Khankyandi, following the Soviet-era route. Meanwhile, the Barda-Aghdam highway could serve in the interim.

Rail transport presents a convenient means to deliver cargo to peacekeepers, with Ganja as the designated point, approximately 130 km from Aghdam. In the future, urgent cargo could be transported to Aghdam's airport.

The Armenian leadership, particularly leaders of the Armenians in Karabakh, vehemently opposes these plans, viewing them not as an alternative for supplying goods to Karabakh but as a step in the reintegration of Karabakh Armenians into Azerbaijan's state and legal systems.

Creating alternative roads is merely the beginning of the journey towards reintegration; building confidence among Karabakh Armenians and ensuring their security and material well-being are equally critical factors.

The next stages of reintegration should address domestic electricity and gas supplies to Karabakh, eliminating the need for transportation from Armenia as is currently the case.

Establishing trade and economic ties will be a potent tool. Creating a Sadarak-type shopping center in Aghdam could enable the Armenian population to access goods and products at more affordable prices than in Khankyandi or Armenia. Armenians would also have the opportunity to sell their products in Aghdam on favorable terms.

While these plans can only be realized under a peace agreement, preparations must begin now. A comprehensive Roadmap, prepared and presented by official Baku to the Karabakh Armenians and the global community, should encompass economic incentives such as cheap agricultural loans, fuel and agricultural machinery subsidies, and temporary tax exemptions.

Security and cultural rights are complex issues requiring meticulous study and preparation, but they must be prioritized in the future Roadmap.

Despite skepticism from some quarters, having such a Roadmap in place will serve as a strategic asset for Baku, even in the event of a military solution, helping dispel international criticism and showing a commitment to resolving the Karabakh issue in a constructive manner. There is a possibility that some Armenians may choose to remain in Karabakh if they can live in safety and harmony with their neighbors, challenging any propagandistic narratives of Azerbaijan's misanthropy.

Drawing inspiration from Turkey's approach towards its Armenian minority, Baku should seek to create an inclusive environment that promotes cultural diversity and coexistence. Turkey has numerous active Armenian churches, schools, hospitals, media outlets, sports clubs, and public organizations, indicating the potential for peaceful cohabitation and cooperation.

Today there are 31 active Armenian churches in Istanbul alone and 7 more churches in the regions. About 60 thousand Armenians - Turkish citizens and about 40 thousand Armenian citizens who came to work live in Istanbul. In the same Istanbul, there are 16 Armenian-language schools, three Armenian hospitals, several sports clubs, three newspapers and many public and cultural organizations. There are several Armenian deputies in the Turkish Parliament. -0-