The so-called “Syunik Corridor” or “Zangezur Corridor” is not merely a transportation initiative. It is, in fact, a geopolitical demand aimed at establishing an extraterritorial route connecting Azerbaijan to its Nakhichevan exclave by crossing the sovereign territory of the Republic of Armenia. This proposal, presented under the guise of connectivity and regional development, poses a direct threat to Armenia’s territorial integrity.
Accepting a corridor under foreign control would not only constitute an unacceptable concession of sovereignty, but would also geographically fracture the country and subject it to constant geostrategic pressure.
Syunik, a region with deep historical roots and crucial strategic importance, also serves as a natural defensive line that connects the country’s heartland to its access routes toward Iran. Its loss or neutralization would seriously disrupt the regional balance.
From the perspective of international law, this issue must be addressed with full respect for the sovereignty and internationally recognized borders of states—principles that are fundamental to the international order. Any regional connectivity project, including the opening of trade or transit routes, must result from sovereign negotiations, free from coercion or unilateral imposition.
Armenia has consistently expressed its willingness to engage in constructive dialogue on initiatives that promote regional cooperation, as long as they are carried out within the framework of mutual respect and international law.
Infrastructure development can be legitimate and beneficial to all parties involved, but only if it is pursued within a context that upholds territorial integrity and the sovereign will of the states concerned. A corridor imposed or controlled by a foreign power is not integration it is coercion.
Therefore, the defense of Syunik is not only a matter of national security for Armenia, but also a cause that should concern the entire international community committed to a rules based order, respect, and legality.
