Russian, Georgian sides arranged to modernize and expand Lars road - transport minister

The Russian and Georgian sides reached an agreement on the expansion of the Lars road and modernization of the border checkpoints which are the only legally functioning border crossing between Russia and Georgia and serves as a vital route linking Armenia to Russia.

During the briefing in the frames of the session of the Intergovernmental Commission of TRACECA (Europe-Caucasus-Asia international transportation corridor) in Yerevan, Martirosyan commented also on the tunnel operation near Lars.  In is words, the design works are at the final phase with the construction works set to launch this year.

The minister next referred to alternative routes to Lars, reminding of its vital importance for Armenia, however, added the issues is within the scope of Russian-Georgian relations.

"Armenia is working toward finding alternative routes not only through South Ossetia and Abkhazia. We benefit from a successfully operating ferry route with growing volumes of cargo transportation," said Martirosyan.