Armenia to begin TRIPP construction in second half of 2026

Armenia will start construction work on the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) project in the second half of 2026, Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan said on Sunday, as economic dialogue with Azerbaijan advances.

Mirzoyan told Armenia’s Public Television that the government is working closely with U.S. partners on the legal and regulatory framework for the project. He added that the first relevant documents are expected in the coming weeks and that Armenia will host international delegations next year in connection with TRIPP.

The TRIPP initiative, developed under a U.S.-brokered framework, aims to enhance regional transport infrastructure and economic connectivity, including railways, roads, and other facilities that could strengthen trade links in the South Caucasus.

Addressing concerns that Russia or Iran oppose the project, Mirzoyan said discussions with Iranian counterparts had raised questions that were answered, and that both Armenia and Iran now see opportunities in opening transport corridors. He emphasised that Armenia has no plans to reduce ties with Russia or remove the Russian 102nd military base from its territory, and that deepening relations with the United States and European partners does not conflict with maintaining ties with Moscow.

Mirzoyan also highlighted the benefits of ongoing fuel imports from Azerbaijan. He said the supply of Azerbaijani gasoline has been very beneficial for Armenian consumers, noting that some deliveries have already experienced queues, reflecting strong demand.

In a recent milestone for bilateral trade, Azerbaijan exported approximately 1,220 tonnes of AI‑95 gasoline to Armenia by rail via Georgia, marking the first direct trade shipment between the two countries in years and signalling potential for broader economic cooperation.

Officials said Armenia is considering the possibility of exporting goods to Azerbaijan, including aluminium products, agricultural goods, beverages, and textiles. Economy Minister Gevorg Papoyan noted that competitive transit costs via Georgian railways could make future deliveries commercially viable, though specific agreements and schedules are still under negotiation.

• Azerbaijan begins first fuel rail exports to Armenia in peace breakthrough
• First Azerbaijani fuel shipment reaches Armenia by rail, signalling new ties
• Armenia explores potential exports to Azerbaijan as economic dialogue advances

On relations with Türkiye, Mirzoyan said the Armenian government seeks “substantial, concrete and perceptible progress” and expects positive steps in the near future.

The development of TRIPP and the renewed economic exchanges with Azerbaijan come amid a broader effort to strengthen regional trade, connectivity, and stability in the South Caucasus.

Copied