Evaluation of the possible effects of the Zangezur corridor on foreign trade of Azerbaijan and the countries in the region

The Zangezur corridor, which emerged as a result of the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War in 2020, holds significant importance on various levels, including local, regional, and intercontinental. Locally, it contributes to the economic development of the regions it passes through in the involved countries. Particularly, it plays a crucial role in connecting Azerbaijan to its long-occupied southwestern territories and providing economic opportunities to the underdeveloped eastern regions of Turkey. This study aims to explore the potential effects of the Zangezur corridor on Azerbaijan's foreign trade and the regional logistics sector. Through qualitative analysis and data document examination, the study examines the impact of the corridor's opening on foreign trade, identifies its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, and utilizes SWOT analysis to evaluate the gathered information. The research findings indicate that the Zangezur corridor will positively impact Azerbaijan's foreign trade and the logistics sector while contributing to peacebuilding efforts among communities. Therefore, the corridor is seen as an opportunity for peaceful development in the region, including Armenia. However, some challenges need to be addressed, such as the absence of a clear implementation plan, ongoing security concerns in the region, and the unresolved borders between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Additionally, influential Armenian lobbies in the US and Europe pose a significant threat to the corridor's opening.