Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said the government has launched work to restore key sections of the country’s railway network while continuing discussions with Russia over the management of Armenia’s railways.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, Pashinyan said Yerevan has not changed its position on the railway issue and is not considering unilaterally terminating the concession agreement with the Russian-managed South Caucasus Railway.
“Our position has not changed and will not change,” Pashinyan said in response to a question about recent developments regarding the management of Armenia’s railways.
He confirmed that Armenia has already begun procedures to restore the railway sections between Gyumri and Akhurik, as well as the Yerask section.
“We have already started the processes aimed at restoring the Gyumri–Akhurik section and the Yerask section of the railway, and we are going to carry out those works,” he said.
At the same time, Pashinyan said discussions on the remaining parts of the railway network would continue, including with Russia.
The Prime Minister stressed that Armenia cannot remain passive while international railway routes bypass the country.
“We cannot simply stand by as international railways enter Armenia and then continue to bypass Armenia. That cannot happen,” he said.
Pashinyan also reaffirmed that Armenia has no intention of negotiating behind Russia’s back, reiterating a position he had previously expressed.
He emphasized that Armenia’s railway infrastructure is the property of the Republic of Armenia and must be managed in the country’s interests.
“These are Armenia’s railways. Ultimately, they are the property of the Republic of Armenia, and we must manage our own property,” Pashinyan said.
While declining to disclose further details, citing ongoing legal consultations and working-level discussions, the Prime Minister said the Russian-operated South Caucasus Railway has been kept informed throughout the process.
“South Caucasus Railway is involved in all these processes. They are aware of what is happening,” he said.
Pashinyan concluded by stressing that Armenia’s railways “must serve the interests of the Republic of Armenia,” adding that allowing them to remain a dead end is not an option.
