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Geopolitical Monitor (5 February 2025)

By Paulo Aguiar

The Zangezur Corridor is a proposed transport route designed to connect Azerbaijan’s mainland with its exclave, the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, bypassing through Armenia’s Syunik Province. Strongly backed by Azerbaijan and Turkey, the project is a major infrastructure initiative aimed at improving regional connectivity. However, it also remains a highly contentious issue, with Armenia and Iran firmly in opposition. The corridor is further entangled in broader geopolitical dynamics involving Russia and other global players. This article explores its proposed development, economic and strategic significance, international reactions, and wider geopolitical implications.

Zangezur Corridor Route and Construction Plans

The envisioned forty-three-kilometer corridor would traverse Armenia’s Syunik region, serving as a vital connection between Horadiz in Azerbaijan and Nakhchivan. On Azerbaijan’s side, the corridor would be integrated into the Horadiz-Agbend transport highway and railway network. On Turkey’s side, it would link into the Nakhchivan-Igdir-Kars railway and highway, providing a direct land route to Anatolia and beyond. Azerbaijan has already made significant progress in developing its portion of the infrastructure, constructing modern highways and railway lines that extend to the Armenian border. The project is strategically aligned with Azerbaijan’s broader efforts to enhance regional trade routes and integrate its exclave with the national economy. In contrast, Armenia has not undertaken any related construction efforts and remains opposed to the corridor.

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