Armenia seeks transfer of railway concessions from Russia

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has called on Russian partners to transfer their operating concessions for Armenia’s railway lines to a third country acceptable to both Armenia and Russia. Speaking in parliament, Pashinyan argued that the current Russian management poses a risk to Armenia’s ability to integrate into the international railway network.

Pashinyan highlighted the importance of the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) project, which aims to connect mainland Azerbaijan with Nakhchivan. He stated that this project would not only establish a direct railway link between Armenia and Azerbaijan but also integrate Armenia into the global network, potentially connecting the country to Russia and Central Asia via Azerbaijan.

Additionally, the Prime Minister addressed Armenia’s potential future with the European Union, suggesting that a referendum could be held if a formal roadmap and response are received following the country’s application. He also reaffirmed Armenia’s current stance regarding the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO).