Armenia Approves U.S. Strategic Cooperation Agreement for TRIPP Project

The Government of Armenia approved a bill on July 16, 2026, to ratify a framework agreement with the United States for strategic cooperation under the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) project. The agreement, which was initialed in Washington and Yerevan in June 2026, establishes the TRIPP Development Company. This joint venture is designed to improve trade, transport, and economic development in the Caucasus, specifically through a transport route connecting Azerbaijan's mainland with the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic via Armenia.

Under the terms of the agreement, the United States will initially hold 74% of the shares, while Armenia will hold 26% for a 49-year term. This period may be extended by another 50 years, at which point Armenia's shareholding would increase to 49%. The project is supported by a $2.5 billion strategic investment package from the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation.

Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan stated that the company will hold land use and development rights in designated areas of Armenia. He emphasized that Armenia will maintain full sovereignty and jurisdiction over its borders, as well as responsibility for customs, security, and law enforcement. The bill must now be reviewed by the Constitutional Court of Armenia to confirm its conformity with the constitution before it proceeds to the National Assembly for final ratification.