YEREVAN.- Armenian President said the railroad connecting Armenia and Iran as well as North-South transport corridor will open up new opportunities for country’s external communication.

Serzh Sargsyan met with voters in Meghri within the framework of his campaign events in Syunik Region in Armenia’s south.

Addressing residents of Meghri, Sargsyan called them “protectors of Armenia’s southern gates”, Armenian News-NEWS.am correspondent reported. He thanked the locals for “protecting Armenia with your peaceful work.”

Development of transport communication amid blockade by two neighboring states is a key challenge for Armenia.

“After a large-scale preparation we have launched road construction of North-South road corridor. It is a time-consuming project, we plan to finish construction in 2017. The new highway, meeting international requirements, will connect us with two neighboring states – Iran and Georgia,” presidential candidate said.

Speaking about advantages of highway, he said the government would spare no effort to implement the project.

He touched upon Iran-Armenia railway project stressing an agreement had been signed several days ago.

“I want to thank Islamic Republic for efficient cooperation on this and other projects,” President said, adding that Armenia values friends who extend a helping hand in a difficult period for the country.