Rasmussen-led group’s report urges political, material support for ”Crossroads of Peace” project

YEREVAN, MARCH 27, ARTSAKHPRESS.  The absence of a peace agreement should not be an impediment for investing in the “Crossroads of Peace” and other similar initiatives. On the contrary, such an initiative could defuse tensions and make a peace agreement more likely.  
This is mentioned in the report by the Friends of Armenia Network, a high-level group launched in 2023 by former Danish Prime Minister and NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen.The group includes former prime ministers, parliamentarians, and diplomats. 
The report focuses on Armenia’s relations with the European Union, the necessity for further strengthening these relations, Armenia’s potential full membership in the organization, and the ongoing situation in the South Caucasus, including the threats faced by Armenia.
Referring to the unblocking of transport connections in the South Caucasus, the report refers to the “Crossroads of Peace” initiative presented by the Armenian Government, which aims to create transport corridors through Armenia. 
“Infrastructure would operate under the jurisdiction and sovereignty of the country it passes through. The use of infrastructure would be based on the principle of reciprocity and equality,” it reads.
According to the authors of the report, the Crossroads of Peace initiative would boost trade, inter-dependence, and connectivity in the South Caucasus and would contribute to the full normalization of relations between Armenia and its neighbors. The initiative would require substantial investment in rail, road, and border infrastructure.   
The report also refers to the activities of the European Union Mission in Armenia (EUMA), adding that Azerbaijan’s refusal to allow the Mission on its territory and a refusal to engage in cross-border contacts are indicators of Baku’s intentions.
It also mentions the need to increase the personnel of that mission and to develop their technical capabilities.