Amid reports of potential Kazakh takeover, Armenian PM says railway management

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan did not rule out the possibility of a Kazakh company taking over the concession agreement of the Armenian railways from Russia, but noted that talks are still ongoing. 

Pashinyan previously called for an end to Russian management of Armenia’s railway network, which operates under a concession agreement. He specifically stated that, in the context of current regional connectivity development projects, it would be preferable for another country—particularly one with friendly ties to both Armenia and Russia—to take over management. He argued that some countries might choose not to make shipments through Armenia due to Russian management of the railway system, thereby reducing Armenia’s competitiveness.

At a press briefing on Thursday, Pashinyan was asked to confirm or deny media reports that talks are underway on a potential Kazakh takeover of the management rights.

“We would not be opposed if it turns out that there is an understanding between us and Russia that the Kazakh company is acceptable for both sides. At the moment, negotiations are proceeding a little differently, as our Russian partners have not yet said, ‘Okay, let’s do it.’ Such ideas exist, but they are still just floating ideas,” the Prime Minister said.

Pashinyan also noted that a few days ago, during a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the issue concerning the Armenian railway was discussed; however, he added that there is no news in this regard, and it remains a working process that continues.