AZERBAIJANI EXCLAVE AND IRAN AGREE ON DIRECT LINKS.

Azerbaijan’s autonomous Nakhichevan Republic has signed an agreement of intent with Iran to open Iranian banking services in Nakhichevan, introduce visa-free travel, establish commuter bus lines between Nakhichevan and cities in northern Iran, lay a two-way railroad track between Nakhichevan and Mashhad (Iran), and regularize transit between Nakhichevan and Baku across Iranian territory. (IRNA, February 16) Nakhichevan, separated by Armenian and Armenian-occupied territories from the rest of Azerbaijan, depends on neighboring Iran for vital communications and supplies.

Moscow Against NATO Political Role in South Caucasus Conflict Settlement.