Pashinyan again calls for end to Russian railway management over sanctions con

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has reiterated that his administration seeks to end Russian concession management of Armenian railways in order to prevent anti-Russian sanctions from hindering the development of the country’s rail system.

Pashinyan has previously called for an end to Russian management of Armenia’s railway network, which operates under a concession agreement through the South Caucasus Railways. 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.

Russia has so far rejected the proposal.

Speaking at a campaign event in the village of Goght, Pashinyan referred to developments around regional connectivity, noting that Türkiye is currently constructing the Kars–Dilucu railway in the area from Kars to Nakhchivan, whereas Armenia already has railway infrastructure.

“There is a ready railway in Armenia, and that is the railway that should be used,” the prime minister said.

According to Pashinyan, studies have led the government to conclude that the issue is related to Armenia’s current concession management model for the railway held by Russia.

“Since Armenia’s railway is under a Russian concession, and Russia has complex sanctions-related relations with Western countries, Western countries are looking for ways to bypass that,” he said.

According to the prime minister, international companies are trying to avoid sanctions risks and are seeking safe routes.

“We believe that the concession logic of Armenia’s railways must definitely be changed, which, by the way, are 100% owned by the Republic of Armenia. This is necessary so that sanctions-related obstacles do not become a problem for our routes and our railways,” Pashinyan said.

He added that Armenia will continue work in this direction with its partners, including Russia.

Pashinyan also announced that the next phase is expected to include the opening of the Armenia–Türkiye border and railway connection.

“In any case, the flow of goods from east to west is so large that I am convinced our railway will operate at high capacity and bring significant revenue to the Republic of Armenia,” he said.

According to the prime minister, international partners have also studied transit routes through Armenia and concluded that the shortest east–west route runs through the Tavush, Lori, and Shirak regions.

“There is strong investment interest in developing roads from Tavush to Shirak and creating toll roads for freight transport,” Pashinyan said.

He added that these programs would generate additional income for Armenia.