US Envoy Barrack Praises Türkiye–Armenia Steps Toward Reopening Railway

US Ambassador to Ankara Tom Barrack welcomed recent steps by Türkiye and Armenia to restore economic and transport links, including plans to reopen the long-closed Kars–Gyumri railway. The move is seen as part of broader normalization efforts and a potential boost to regional stability in the South Caucasus.

Railway Reopening Seen as “Historic Step”

Tom Barrack, who also serves as US Special Envoy for Syria, praised the latest developments following a Türkiye–Armenia joint working group meeting in Kars.

In a statement shared on social media, Barrack described the initiative as a “milestone” for regional connectivity and peace.

“I welcome the recent steps taken by Türkiye and Armenia to reconnect their economies and peoples,” he said.

Kars–Gyumri Line Back on the Agenda

The two countries are working toward reopening the Kars–Gyumri railway, a 60-kilometer cross-border line that has been closed since 1993, when Türkiye shut its border with Armenia during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict in support of Azerbaijan.

The railway, once a key trade and transportation corridor, connected the region for over a century before being suspended.

Officials from both countries view the latest talks as a critical step toward restoring regional transport links.

Part of Broader Normalization Efforts

The railway initiative builds on gradual normalization efforts between Türkiye and Armenia:

• Limited border openings for diplomats since 2022
• Renewed diplomatic engagement and talks in 2025
• Increased focus on economic and logistical cooperation

The latest meeting in Kars signals growing momentum toward rebuilding bilateral ties.

US Support and Regional Vision

Barrack linked the development to broader US-backed regional initiatives, including the “Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity” framework, which emerged from a 2025 White House summit.

“A new, interconnected and peaceful South Caucasus is taking shape,” Barrack said, aligning the progress with President Donald Trump’s commitment to regional stability and prosperity.

Mixed Reactions in Armenia

Despite diplomatic progress, public opinion in Armenia remains divided. Polls indicate that a majority of Armenians remain skeptical about reopening the border and normalizing ties with Türkiye.

Concerns stem from historical tensions and unresolved political issues, suggesting that normalization may face domestic hurdles even as official talks advance.

Outlook: Economic Opportunity vs Political Sensitivity

Reopening the Kars–Gyumri railway could deliver significant economic benefits:

• Reviving regional trade routes
• Enhancing connectivity in the South Caucasus
• Supporting long-term economic integration

However, political sensitivities and public resistance—particularly in Armenia—may continue to shape the pace and scope of progress.

Source:  KARAR Daily, Grog