Moscow awaits Yerevan’s response on restoration of Armenian railway sections: Alexey Overchuk

Moscow expects a response from Yerevan to Russia’s proposal to restore two sections of Armenian railways. This was stated on October 2 by Alexey Overchuk, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation.

According to him, the lines in question run from Yeraskh to Nakhichevan and from Gyumri to the border with Turkey, and are under the concession of Russian Railways (RZD). Russia supports their restoration and is ready to help Armenia ensure transport connectivity. The decision on such participation was made by the President of the Russian Federation back in January, Overchuk noted, adding that “very important meetings” lie ahead that will advance the issue.

Earlier, on September 2, Overchuk stated that the words of Nikol Pashinyan, Prime Minister of Armenia, about the “toxicity” of RZD do not correspond to reality. He stressed that the company continues international shipments, including transit to Europe, and does not face sanctions restrictions.

It should be recalled that on August 24, Pashinyan said that Yerevan had proposed to Moscow that the concession for managing the railways be transferred to a third party acceptable to both countries. According to him, this decision is linked to the risks that Western investors and transport participants associate with sanctions against Russia.