Armenian Parliament Ratifies TRIPP Agreement Despite Opposition Objections

YEREVAN – Armenia’s National Assembly ratified the framework agreement with the United States concerning the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) on October 28, with 63 lawmakers voting in favour and 32 against.

The ruling Civil Contract faction supported the agreement, while the opposition Armenia Alliance and Strong Armenia factions voted against it, raising concerns over reciprocity, economic benefits and the long-term implications for Armenia’s strategic interests.

Under the agreement, a joint Armenian-American development company will oversee the project, with the American side holding a 74% stake and Armenia retaining 26% for an initial 49-year period. If the arrangement is extended for another 50 years, Armenia’s ownership would increase to 49%.

Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan insisted that all infrastructure developed on Armenian territory would remain under Armenia’s sovereignty and jurisdiction. The government argues that TRIPP will unblock regional communications, improve connectivity and create new economic opportunities.

However, Armenia Alliance parliamentary leader Anna Grigoryan questioned whether the agreement provides genuinely reciprocal advantages. She argued that Azerbaijan’s interests are more clearly reflected in the framework, particularly its connection to Nakhchivan through Armenian territory.

Opposition lawmakers also demanded clarity regarding border and customs procedures, projected revenues and the guarantees protecting Armenia’s interests.

Significantly, the company’s charter and shareholders’ agreement have yet to be finalized.

The ratification therefore represents a major political commitment before all implementation arrangements have been settled. For the opposition, the central concern remains whether Armenia will secure measurable and enforceable benefits from a project involving strategically sensitive infrastructure in Syunik.