BP, which operates the pipeline to Georgia's Black Sea coast, says the shutdown is temporary and that in the meantime all oil exports are being rerouted through Turkey.
In spite of ascendant political ties between the two allies, the apparent temporary nature of the new agreement speaks to their differing economic priorities.
Political leaders on both sides of the border appear interested in restoring ties after nearly three decades. Kars, on Turkey’s northeastern frontier, has much to gain.