Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev announced that his country has lifted restrictions on goods transit to Armenia. He shared this news at a joint press conference with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in Astana.
According to Aliyev, the first transit cargo was Kazakh grain bound for Armenia. This step, Aliyev believes, confirms the transition from peace "on paper" to real peace between the two countries.
The Azerbaijani leader emphasized that relations between Baku and Yerevan have entered a "new stage – one of peace," and the initialing of a peace agreement less than two years after the latest military clashes demonstrates the political will of both sides.
He also praised the role of US President Donald Trump in the normalization of relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Furthermore, Aliyev announced the estimated opening date of the route named after him. He stated that all work in Azerbaijan would be completed by the middle of next year, and if work in other countries proceeds at a similar pace, the Trump Route could open by the end of 2028.
The Armenian side responded positively to Aliyev's statement.
"This step is crucial for opening regional communications, strengthening mutual trust, and institutionalizing the peace established between Armenia and Azerbaijan—in accordance with the agreements reached in Washington," said Nazeli Baghdasaryan, spokesperson for the Armenian Prime Minister.
