On January 28, Davit Karapetyan participated and delivered a speech at the discussion titled “Hinterland to High Streets: Connectivity, Commerce and Communities,” held within the framework of the “Raisin: Middle East” conference.

In his speech, the Secretary General of the RA Foreign Ministry touched upon the importance of overcoming the impact of regional crises on trade and transport, pointing out the adverse effects of conflicts on the infrastructure and economies of the regions. He emphasized that ensuring safe transport routes and promoting investments in infrastructure play a key role in regional peace and stability.

Davit Karapetyan noted that Armenia, having faced and resisted geopolitical and security challenges for decades, is firm in its position that regional cooperation and transport projects can overcome political differences and promote peace, stability, and growth.

A prime example is Armenia’s “Crossroads of Peace” initiative, which aims to transform the security partnership architecture in the South Caucasus and neighboring regions.

The Secretary-General emphasized that the initiative aims to foster regional cooperation by expanding connectivity between the Gulf, Black Sea, and Caspian Sea regions and promoting their integration into global transport networks. Referring to Armenia’s role as a historical crossroads between East and West and the Middle East’s historical role as a global trade hub, Davit Karapetyan emphasized that secure trade routes connecting the regions can restore that role and significance by promoting economic ties, cultural dialogue, and global stability.