Armenia-Turkey Checkpoint to Open for Humanitarian Aid to Syria

The Margara checkpoint between Armenia and Turkey will open from March 21 to March 31 to transport humanitarian aid to Syria, following meetings with Syrian officials. This landmark reopening, the first since February 2023, aims to respond to the needs of ethnic minorities in Syria amidst shifting political landscapes and improving Armenia–Turkey relations.

The Armenian government has announced the temporary opening of the Margara checkpoint between Armenia and Turkey from March 21 to March 31. This initiative aims to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to Syria and follows several discussions between Armenian and Syrian officials. Prior to the Syrian Civil War, approximately 100,000 Armenians resided in Syria, primarily in Aleppo.

With the recent changes in Syria’s political landscape after the downfall of President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, there are growing concerns regarding the safety of ethnic minorities in the country. Reports indicate that the opening of the Margara checkpoint presents a quick and cost-effective means to deliver necessary humanitarian assistance to Syria, as stated by the government.

The Margara checkpoint, which had been closed for 30 years due to a Turkish-imposed embargo during the First Nagorno-Karabakh War, first reopened in February 2023. This opening facilitated aid deliveries to Turkish regions affected by a devastating earthquake. Recently, relations between Armenia and Turkey have been improving, marked by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s candid interview with Turkish journalists, where he emphasized a notable shift in dialogue and relations between the two nations.

The temporary reopening of the Margara checkpoint marks a significant step in facilitating humanitarian aid to Syria amidst ongoing challenges. Strengthened dialog between Armenia and Turkey reflects a broader trend toward improving regional relations, potentially paving the way for future cooperation and support for ethnic minorities in Syria. The move illustrates a dedication to humanitarian efforts even in complex political climates.

Original Source: oc-media.org