Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan told Public Television that the first formal document under the Armenia–U.S. partnership on the TRIPP initiative will be signed in the coming weeks, with construction on the ground set to begin in the second half of 2026.
Mirzoyan emphasized that the August 8 summit in Washington marked a milestone where Armenia, Azerbaijan, and the U.S. reaffirmed that all unblocking of regional routes will occur within the framework of territorial integrity, sovereignty, and jurisdiction.
He said that Armenia is working intensely with the U.S. to move beyond broad principles and finalize detailed terms, obligations, and rights.
According to Mirzoyan, the railway is expected to be the first operational component of the TRIPP corridor, connecting Armenia to international markets and allowing both imports and exports. He also noted the strategic significance for Azerbaijan and third countries, mentioning connections stretching from Portugal to Central Asia.
He confirmed that Iran and Russia both view the unblocking of infrastructure positively. “From everything we’ve heard from our Iranian counterparts, the concerns have been addressed. There is a mutual recognition that these projects bring opportunity,” Mirzoyan stated.
On Russia, he added: “There have been official comments that they’re ready to participate and support. The Prime Minister recently proposed Russia’s involvement in reconstructing missing rail segments. That’s a form of inclusion, and I believe it is welcomed.”
Mirzoyan concluded that Armenia aims to balance all stakeholder interests, as such initiatives enhance peace and stimulate economic growth.
Earlier, the U.S., Armenian, and Azerbaijani leaders agreed in Washington to launch “Trump’s Route,” a corridor allowing Azerbaijan to access Nakhichevan while respecting Armenian sovereignty, backed by a U.S.–Armenia partnership that may extend up to 99 years.
Trump said major U.S. companies are eager to invest in the region, expecting infrastructure-driven growth to benefit all three nations.
In September, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that no land was leased to the U.S., but a construction right was granted instead.
