Russia has imposed “temporary restrictions” on the import of cut flowers from Armenia in another sign of mounting tensions between the two states.
The state agricultural watchdog Rosselkhoznadzor announced them late on Wednesday right after the secretary of Russia’s Security Council, Sergei Shoigu, met with other officials in Moscow to discuss the future of Russian-Armenian relations. Shoigu accused Yerevan of siding with the European Union against Russia and taking other hostile actions.
“Moscow cannot accept the line that the Armenian leadership is pursuing today; namely, the line that it will maintain membership in the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU) until, so to speak, it switches to membership in the European Union,” Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin said after the meeting.
Rosselkhoznadzor attributed the restrictions, effective from Friday, to the presence of “quarantined objects” in flowers imported from Armenia. It said they will remain in place pending the findings of an ongoing sanitary inspection of Armenian flower greenhouses.
The Russian government agency already imposed such curbs last summer. Armenia’s Food Safety Inspectorate responded by stepping up sanitary controls and organizing video inspections of flower greenhouses for Rosselkhoznadzor.
The number of such greenhouses across the South Caucasus surpassed 700 flower last year, reflecting soaring flower exports to Russia. According to Rosselkhoznadzor, the physical volume of those exports surged by almost 50 percent to 52 million flowers in January-May 2025.
Russia is also the principal market for other agricultural products as well as alcoholic beverages exported by Armenia. Russian officials emphasize this fact in their warnings about economic consequences of the Armenian government’s European integration drive.
Meeting with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian in Moscow on April 1, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that Yerevan can no longer combine that policy with its membership in the EEU guaranteeing Armenian exporters’ tariff-free access to the Russian market.
Later in April, Russian authorities suspended on sanitary grounds sales of Armenia’s most famous brand of mineral water. More than 1.3 million bottles of the water produced by Armenia’s Jermuk Group were reportedly taken off the Russian market pending an ongoing inspection of its quality.
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Ararat Cement Plant to Be Nationalized Ahead of Armenia’s June 2026 Elections
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Asbarez: Armenia Selected as Honorary Country to Create Films for Cannes Criti
Armenia will become the honorary country of the “Next Step Studio” initiative under “La Semaine de la Critique” (Critics’ Week) at the 80th edition of the Cannes Film Festival in 2027, creating a major opportunity for the international promotion of Armenian cinema and the advancement of emerging filmmakers.
The announcement was made during the ongoing Cannes Film Festival, attended by Armenia’s Deputy Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports, Daniel Danielyan.
Under the initiative, four directors from Armenia will be paired with four from abroad, to collaborate and produce four short films in Armenia. The projects will be inspired by Armenia’s environment, culture, realities and human stories, with the completed films set to premiere in Cannes as part of Critics’ Week.
Speaking at the event, Danielyan described the announcement as deeply symbolic and historic for Armenia, particularly following the inclusion of five films by acclaimed Armenian filmmaker Artavazd Peleshyan in the Cannes Classics program.
Danielyan speaking after the announcement
“Armenia is represented at Cannes with dignity,” Danielyan said. “After the inclusion of five films by the great master of Armenian cinema Artavazd Peleshyan in Cannes Classics, this new announcement carries deeply symbolic and even historic significance for us.”
He went on to praise Critics’ Week for its longstanding role in discovering new cinematic voices and supporting emerging talents.
“For decades, this iconic structure of the Cannes Festival has discovered new voices, guided young creators and introduced bold and original human perspectives to the world,” he said. “Critics’ Week is not merely a platform for artistic discoveries; it has become a true international laboratory for cinematic vision.”
Danielyan described Armenia’s participation as more than a cultural collaboration, calling it the beginning of a new chapter for the country’s film industry.
He noted that Armenia had endured decades marked by wars, closed borders and isolation, but emphasized that creativity had remained central to the nation’s identity.
“Even in the most difficult times, our people never stopped creating,” he said. “We continued to write, sing, film and pass on values because culture for us has never been a luxury – it has been a means of staying strong.”
He also spoke of a new historic opportunity emerging in the region, referring to the restoration of peace over the past nine months, while acknowledging its fragility.
“At this important moment, we want to tell our stories to the world because we have something to say,” Danielyan said. “Stories of resilience and dignity, but also of love, light, hope and faith in the future.”
The Next Step Studio initiative is one of Critics’ Week’s ongoing international programs aimed at supporting a new generation of filmmakers through creative development, international mentorship and industry networking opportunities.
The project will include script development, collaboration with international experts, production preparation, filming in Armenia, post-production work and screenings in Cannes.
Following the premieres of the four short films, the Armenian directors participating in the program will also have the opportunity to present their future feature film projects to international co-producers, distributors, producers and film industry representatives.
Officials say the initiative carries long-term significance by creating pathways not only for international exposure of short films, but also for the development of future feature-length projects and global partnerships.
The project is expected to be implemented with the support of Armenia’s Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports in cooperation with the Guild of Armenian Film Directors and Producers and the Armenian Film Foundation.
The initiative is seen as an important step toward strengthening Armenia’s international film ties, promoting young talent and positioning the country as a modern and creative hub for international cinematic collaboration.
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EU and Armenia deepen digital and security partnership in Yerevan
Armenia hosted EU leaders as digital infrastructure, security and democracy risks dominated talks.
The EU and Armenia have signed a new connectivity partnership during their first bilateral summit in Yerevan, expanding cooperation across digital infrastructure, transport, energy, defence, and border management. The agreement forms part of the EU’s broader effort to strengthen political and economic ties in the South Caucasus while supporting regional stability.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the summit had taken EU-Armenia relations to a new level, with future cooperation focused on economic integration, political dialogue, and security. The partnership aligns the EU’s Cross-Regional Connectivity Agenda with Armenia’s ‘Crossroad of Peace’ initiative and introduces high-level dialogues on connectivity and transport.
The summit also launched new initiatives in digital infrastructure, semiconductor skills, innovation ecosystems, and private investment mobilisation. Brussels advanced Armenia’s visa liberalisation process, strengthened border cooperation through Frontex, and backed security cooperation through an EU Partnership Mission and €30 million in European Peace Facility assistance.
At the same time, Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez used the European Political Community meeting in Yerevan to call for stronger digital governance across Europe. Speaking at a roundtable on democratic resilience and hybrid threats, he warned that digital infrastructure and social media platforms are being used to exploit democratic vulnerabilities.
Sánchez called for action in three areas: implementing the European Democracy Shield, strengthening the European Centre for Democratic Resilience, and establishing a European-level digital age of majority. He also urged a review of platform obligations under the Digital Services framework and promoted coordinated action among countries committed to defending democracy.
Alongside the summit, Sánchez met Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to discuss peace efforts, EU-Armenia relations, multilateralism, energy cooperation, and digital sovereignty.
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Turkish Press: Türkiye-Armenia normalization offers model for regional peace’
The normalization and peace process between Türkiye and Armenia is “extremely valuable” and can serve as an example for other regions, Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz said Monday during a visit to Yerevan.
“Unfortunately, many regions of the world are not in such a situation. There are numerous conflicts and increasingly deepening wars,” Yılmaz told journalists on the sidelines of the 8th European Political Community summit.
The two countries signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly restore the ancient Ani Bridge.
The agreement was announced following a meeting between Yılmaz and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on the sidelines of the summit in the Armenian capital.
“Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev has made an important contribution to bringing this process to this point,” Yılmaz noted, adding that Pashinyan “has made a major contribution as well, demonstrating courageous leadership by presenting a realistic vision that serves the interests of his people-not just in words, but through concrete actions.”
Türkiye was represented at the highest level since 2008 by the vice president at the summit.
Calling Monday’s meeting in Yerevan “historic,” Yılmaz said: “Both in terms of Türkiye-Armenia relations and Azerbaijan-Armenia relations, the participation and the atmosphere here were highly positive. I hope it brings beneficial outcomes for the shared future, unity of geography, and common destiny of all the nations and states in this region.”
Yılmaz also emphasized Türkiye’s broader diplomatic role, saying: “At the same time, our President Recep Tayyip Erdogan continues to support normalization and peace with all of Türkiye’s strength and resources, maintaining dialogue with all sides in the region.”
He added that Erdogan’s “diplomacy for peace applies across many areas-not only in this issue, but also conflicts involving Iran, Israel, and the US, Gaza, Africa, Syria, and the Balkans.”
He also said: “Each individual step may not seem sufficient on its own, but over time, these steps accumulate, building trust between countries.”
Yılmaz also pointed to practical developments, including transport and investment links: “Turkish Airlines has resumed flights to Istanbul, and there are plans to increase them. Pegasus had already started earlier. There are also important developments in telecommunications.”
On the wider impact of the Mideast conflict, he said: “We believe that peace serves humanity. A just peace benefits everyone. Wars ultimately bring destruction and create high human costs.”
He added: “As seen in the recent Iran-U.S,-Israel conflict, wars also generate major economic costs.”
On infrastructure, he said: “Regarding the Ani Bridge, technical preparations have already been completed. Our institutions are now on the ground. There are no remaining obstacles, so work is expected to begin very soon.”
According to Yılmaz, “progress is being made day by day in Azerbaijan-Armenia relations, with mutual positive steps being taken,” adding that parallel efforts between Türkiye and Armenia are “creating a new atmosphere in the South Caucasus.”
“This is one of the most strategic regions in the world. It has historically been a transit region. We believe that as peace and normalization are achieved in the South Caucasus, first and foremost, everyone living in this region will benefit. Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Türkiye-all countries will benefit,” he underlined.
He also linked regional stability to global trade dynamics, noting: “As is well known, there is a war involving Russia, conflicts extending southward, and southern routes are operating at near full capacity. Therefore, the ‘Middle Corridor’ is extremely important, and today everyone recognizes its strategic significance more clearly.”
He concluded by thanking Armenian officials for their warm welcome in Yerevan. “Finally, I would like to say that from the moment we arrived, Armenian authorities showed us great interest and hospitality. I would like to thank all Armenian officials, especially Prime Minister Pashinyan, for their warm welcome and for creating such a positive atmosphere.”
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Europeans will come, take a walk, be photographed, we will bear the responsibility. Pash
May 4, 2026
Pashinyan is doing everything to present the 8th summit of the European political community as part of his campaign, Hayk Mamijanyan, a member of the “Republican” party, told reporters.
“It is also supported by some of its European owners. We have gathered to prevent this from happening,” Mamijanyan said.
He mentioned that Aliyev used to give instructions to Pashinyan over the phone.
“Today, Aliyev was arrested in Yerevan, and he was giving hate speech to people who speak about the rights of our prisoners, Artsakh Armenians. I have a question for our citizens, are they “okay” with this? Is there anyone in Armenia who considers it normal for Aliyev to give specific instructions?” asked Hayk Mamijanyan, noting that he, his friends and many other people are not “okay” with it.
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Turkish Press: Türkiye, Armenia sign Ani Bridge restoration deal in boost to
Türkiye and Armenia have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to jointly restore the ancient Ani Bridge, in a move described as a step towards strengthening ties between the two countries.
The agreement was announced on Monday following a meeting between Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz on the sidelines of the 8th European Political Community Summit in Yerevan, Armenia’s capital.
In their presence, Türkiye’s special envoy Serdar Kilic and Armenia’s special envoy Ruben Rubinyan signed the deal.
The Ani Bridge, long a symbol of division, is also seen as a potential sign of reconciliation between the two neighbours.
Yilmaz said the talks covered bilateral relations as well as transport, customs, energy and digital connectivity, with a focus on strengthening regional integration.
He noted that recent progress in the normalisation process is beginning to produce concrete results, signalling a gradual shift in diplomatic momentum.
The bridge restoration agreement reflects both “symbolic and concrete cooperation” between Türkiye and Armenia, Yilmaz said in a post on NSosyal.
“During the meeting with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, we held a comprehensive review of bilateral relations. Discussions covered key areas including transportation, customs cooperation, energy, and efforts to strengthen digital infrastructure and connectivity. We are also pleased that the mutually constructive steps taken in the normalisation process are producing concrete progress,” he added.
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Armenian President welcomes UK Prime Minister at Yerevan airport
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has arrived in Armenia to participate in the 8th European Political Community (EPC) Summit.
President of Armenia Vahagn Khachaturyan welcomed the UK Prime Minister at Zvartnots Airport.
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Armenia and Kosovo discuss prospects for cooperation
Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan held a meeting with the acting Prime Minister of Kosovo, Albin Kurti, who arrived in Armenia to participate in the European Political Community Summit.
Pashinyan welcomed PM Kurti’s visit to Armenia and recalled that they had met and held discussions several times before, the Prime Minister’s Office said in a readout.
Prime Minister Pashinyan emphasized the importance of continuity in dialogue and steps aimed at further developing bilateral relations. In particular, he highlighted programs aimed at deepening ties in the tourism sector.
The acting Prime Minister of Kosovo expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality, emphasizing that he was impressed by Yerevan and its history, culture, and traditions. In this regard, PM Albin Kurti shared his impressions of his visit to the Sergei Parajanov Museum.
During the meeting, the prime ministers exchanged views on the European Political Community Summit, as well as the prospects for Armenia–Kosovo cooperation.
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President Khachaturyan stresses role of work in state development in Labour Da
Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan has issued a congratulatory message on the occasion of International Workers’ Day.
In his message, President said: “I congratulate us all on May 1, International Workers’ Day. This holiday is another opportunity to emphasise the important role of work in the development of our state and public life. The progress of any country is based on the responsible and conscientious work of individuals, which ensures both the well-being of families and the strengthening of statehood.
The diligence and creative potential of our people have historically been the main guarantee of our survival and progress. Today, in a period full of challenges, it is through consistent work that we create new value and strengthen the economic foundations of our country.
I express my gratitude to all those who carry out their duties with daily dedication, contributing to the development of our country. Special appreciation is due to those who act with a high sense of responsibility even in difficult and demanding situations.
Once again congratulating you on this occasion, I wish health, success and prosperity to all our families.”
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