Armenian economy minister responds to Kocharyan's TRIPP remarks

Armenian Minister of Economy Gevorg Papoyan says that during his official visit to the United States, he has been formally invited by the U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce to discuss issues related to the TRIPP project.

Speaking in the parliament on Monday, Papoyan noted that the meeting agenda includes discussions on the TRIPP investment initiative and potential investment projects involving major American companies. He added that the Armenian government is also studying the field and preparing proposals for U.S. investors based on the country’s market potential.

As an example of ongoing cooperation with the United States, Papoyan cited a recent $135 million loan agreement between Ardshinbank and Contour Global Bank. “We expect to see a new wave of American brands and investments in Armenia,” he said.

Commenting on former President Robert Kocharyan’s remarks about the width of the Meghri route and the Yeraskh-Nakhichevan railway, Papoyan said: “Where did Kocharyan get that information from? Whether it’s 11 meters 17 centimeters or 18 meters 26 centimeters, what difference does it make? Or whether the asphalt is 4 or 6 centimeters thick, what does that change? We are not handing over a road; we are building it on our territory. It’s ours.”