Progress in achieving a peaceful settlement between Azerbaijan and Armenia is changing the political and economic landscape of the region, EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kłos told Report’s European bureau.

According to the Commissioner, who recently returned from a regional tour, the region now has, for the first time in decades, a real opportunity to reopen trade and transport routes connecting Europe and Asia.

"Countries stretching from Europe to the borders of China understand the importance of this moment. Today, they have all gathered here in Luxembourg. This is the first time such a gathering has taken place," Kłos emphasized.

The Commissioner noted that EU member states intend to create new interconnectivity infrastructure to provide greater operational freedom and more opportunities in trade, energy sourcing, and digital data transfer. This would mean increased independence for all countries along these routes.

"Our work is an investment in peace. Concrete cooperation, interconnected markets, and mutually linked societies can strengthen long-term stability and prosperity in the South Caucasus," she stated.

"The meeting in Luxembourg is only the first step. In November, it will be followed by an investment forum with the participation of the United States," the Commissioner added.