Following the 12th meeting of the Armenian–Azerbaijani border demarcation commissions held in Gabala, Azerbaijani media reported that the sides had allegedly agreed to carry out inspections at the Sotk gold mine. According to these reports, Azerbaijan is developing transport and logistics infrastructure in the area. It also intends to move toward exploiting the deposit at a later stage.
Against this background, a key question arises. What objectives is Baku pursuing, and why has the issue of so-called “inspections” once again appeared on the agenda?
Pressure as a Consistent Policy
International analyst Armen Manvelyan notes that the current developments are not new. He says they fully fit into Azerbaijan’s long-standing pressure strategy. According to him, Baku has for years demanded the closure of the Sotk mine. The present situation represents yet another attempt to advance this goal under different pretexts.
Manvelyan emphasizes that Azerbaijani claims suggesting that parts of the mine are located on their territory do not correspond to reality. However, Baku continues to apply political and informational pressure. Its aim, he says, is clear: to force the suspension of the mine’s operations.
Reduced Operations and Closure Risks
The expert points out that the Sotk mine is currently operating at only around 50% of its capacity. The processing plant is not functioning. Only the mining shaft remains active.
If a demand for the complete shutdown of the mine is put forward, Manvelyan does not rule out a concession. He says the authorities could agree to such a step under pressure.
In his assessment, the overall trajectory of events is clear. The situation indicates an attempt to gradually shut down the mine. This creates serious risks for Armenia’s economic interests.
Strategic Importance of the Sotk Mine
Manvelyan stresses that the Sotk mine is the largest gold-producing site in Armenia. This makes the pressure surrounding it particularly sensitive.
He draws parallels with other strategically important facilities. In particular, he recalls similar pressure tactics previously used against Armenia’s nuclear power plant.
According to the analyst, persistent demands combined with continuous pressure may eventually lead to the desired outcome. This will happen unless Armenia develops and maintains a clear and consistent policy to protect its strategic assets.