Opening of the Armenian – Turkish border: politico – economic perspective

Abstract

The purpose of this Master’s Essay is to examine several important aspects of Armenia-Turkey relations, throwing a glance on the latter through the prism of past, present and future. Armenia-Turkey relations have historically been strained. During the last decade the geopolitics of the region has changed and the state interests of the players in the region of South Caucasus have rearranged. The latter provided grounds for the two countries to solve the differences between the two and based on their common interest start cooperating in different fields. Now that accession talks with the EU have started; Turkey is not yearning for an oil pipeline from Azerbaijan; the Armenian Genocide resolution process around the world has gathered steam; Turkey's economy is in crisis mode; and Georgia-Russia tensions proved to be consequential I found it pertinent to analyze all the above mentioned summing up in the Essay and giving possible politico-economic estimations and outcomes for both Armenia and Turkey as well as for the region. All of the above said is enshrined in the Essay flavored with brand new events in the sphere of international relation such as the “football diplomacy” and public daring of the new Armenian administration, which entered an open process with Turkey. The paper discusses other issues as well including whether or not it is worth opening the border with Turkey and if yes what are the benefits for both sides and if no what are the costs.