Ioseb Archvadze: Azerbaijan main initiator of Baku–Tbilisi–Kars project

The full commissioning of the Baku–Tbilisi–Kars (BTK) railway is an important strategic event for the region, well-known Georgian professor Ioseb Archvadze told Report's local bureau.

According to him, the project makes an important contribution to the further expansion of economic ties and cooperation between Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Türkiye, bringing the countries closer together.

The expert noted that the full operation of the BTK line will lead to significant changes in the region's transport and infrastructure map. The project not only increases transport volumes but also creates conditions for job growth and stronger economic activity in the region's countries.

In his view, this process contributes to strengthening the strategic partnership between Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Türkiye and further deepening regional cooperation.

The role of Azerbaijan in the successful implementation of the Baku–Tbilisi–Kars railway is of particular and decisive importance.

He said that the main part of the project's financing was provided by the Azerbaijani side, which once again demonstrates Baku's strategic position in its implementation.

The expert noted that this approach allows Azerbaijan to build more stable and sustainable economic relations with both Georgia and Türkiye.

As a result of the project's implementation, strategic benefits will be achieved in three main directions. First, faster and safer delivery of goods transported from Asia to Europe will be ensured.

Second, an increase in freight volumes and stronger transit capacity is expected due to the expansion of alternative transport routes for Azerbaijan's economy. This will further strengthen the country's position in the international logistics system.

Third, conditions will be created for further strengthening Türkiye"s transport links both toward the South Caucasus and Central Asia. At the same time, Georgia will further expand its role as an important transit and logistics hub in the region and gain additional economic benefits from cooperation.

"At the same time, this cooperation strengthens the strategic partnership between regional countries and gives additional momentum to Azerbaijan's economic development," Ioseb Archvadze emphasized.