The railway network of Armenia is the absolute property of the state and must serve exclusively the national interests of the country. This was announced by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in a briefing with journalists after the government session on July 2, referring to the ongoing developments in infrastructure management and restoration.
Referring to the new programs, the head of the government noted. “We have started the processes aimed at the restoration of the railway in the Gyumri-Akhurik and Yeraskh sections, and we will carry out these works.” Speaking about the continuation of working discussions with Russia, Pashinyan emphasized that the state is not going to change its position and just watch the international transport flows, which may enter but bypass Armenia, as an observer.
Answering the question regarding the possibility of the government taking over the management of the railway for the purpose of repair, the Prime Minister emphasized. “Let’s record that it is our railway. It is the property of the Republic of Armenia, and we must manage our property. I can definitely say one thing. railways are the property of the Republic of Armenia and must serve the interests of the Republic of Armenia. It cannot be otherwise,” he noted, adding that the “South Caucasus Railway” company is informed and involved in all processes.
It should be noted that the issue of transferring the right of concession management of the railway network of Armenia from the Russian side to another friendly country, specifically to Kazakhstan, is being actively discussed recently. Consultations and negotiations on this topic have intensified in recent months with the aim of diversifying the management of strategic infrastructures, improving the quality of service and attracting new investments.
This perspective, however, received a very negative response in Russia. Moscow views such a possibility as an attempt to weaken Armenian-Russian economic and strategic ties, expressing its displeasure and concern regarding the possible expulsion of Russian capital and economic influence from the strategic objects of the South Caucasus.
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