The Upper Lars checkpoint at the Georgian-Russian border is expected to be re-opened next March, Georgian Deputy Foreign Minister Nino Kalandadze told a press briefing.
She said that the decision was made at the Russian-Georgian expert negotiations through Swiss mediation. “Only verbal arrangements have yet been made, but the experts will meet during next fortnight, and a final agreement will be reached,” Kalandadze said.
The Upper Lars checkpoint will be open not only for transit cargoes from Armenia, but also for the transportation of Georgian cargoes and for Georgian citizens to cross the Georgian-Russian border.
“We welcome the negotiations and the agreements reached and expect them to be finalized,” Kalandaze said.
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-- Edited by Sanders on Thursday 24th of December 2009 09:26:32 PM
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Democracy needs defending - SOS Hillary Clinton, Sept 8, 2010 Democracy is more than just elections - SOS Hillary Clinton, Oct 28, 2010
I am observing that the tiny country of Armenia is rapidly evolving into a prominent international player. They seem to have great energy resources. India made a pact with Armenia. Saudi Arabia ministers visited Armenia last month to establish high level diplomatic relations.
Meanwhile, Turkey is in the midst of establishing its peace accord and Armenia is insisting that Turkey recognize the Armenian genocide. Hillary Clinton has done a lot of work in regard to the Turkey-Armenia peace accord and I hope this evolves into a stronger partnership in the region as this can be a great plus in combating middle eastern conflict.
As to Turkey becoming part of Europe, Turkey's political pundits have opined that it may be best left to the natural processes so that the situation can lead to greater reform from within. It does not make sense for US to get involved in that in any case, and I am glad Hillary Clinton has stayed out of it. I believe at this stage Turkey is very much a part of EU.
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Democracy needs defending - SOS Hillary Clinton, Sept 8, 2010 Democracy is more than just elections - SOS Hillary Clinton, Oct 28, 2010