1. Shoigu: “Yerevan must decide which path it will take”
Secretary of the Security Council of Russia Sergey Shoigu stated that new threats are emerging in the CSTO responsibility zone, mainly from NATO member European countries.
Criticism. Shoigu expressed regret that Armenia, which has adopted a policy of joining the European Union, is seeking protection “next to the immediate source of threat,” emphasizing that Yerevan must finally determine its foreign policy vector.
2. Moscow may revise the contract for the supply of energy resources and diamonds
According to the newspaper “Kommersant,” Russia may revise the intergovernmental agreement of 2013 on the supply of gas, oil products, and unprocessed diamonds to Armenia.
Economic consequences. In Moscow, it is believed that Armenia's European direction contradicts bilateral strategic interests. Moreover, according to statistical data, if Yerevan exits the EAEU, it risks losing almost 40 percent of its trade turnover, losing the 5% unified low tariff rate and duty-free import privileges.
3. Armenia will take a new loan of 170.3 million euros from the World Bank
At today’s government meeting, a decision was made to attract new loan funds from the World Bank (WB) to replenish the state budget.
Purpose. The loan of 170.3 million euros will be directed towards improving the legislation on “Economic Competition,” expanding legal guarantees for investors, and strengthening the powers of the Competition Protection Commission (to prevent price speculation).
Conditions. The loan is provided for a period of 28 years (of which 10 years are grace) at an annual interest rate of about 3.7%.
4. The new emblem of the Armed Forces of Armenia has been presented
Defense Minister Suren Papikyan presented the updated emblem of the Armed Forces, noting that the previous version had heraldic and ideological shortcomings.
Symbolism. In the new version, the eagle is depicted in a complete and combat position, with the sun behind it. On the shield are placed a solar cross, images of seeds, and at the top, the tricolor of Armenia and the map, emphasizing the army's defensive mission.
5. Guterres-Bayramov meeting in New York
During discussions held within the framework of the UN Security Council in New York, UN Secretary-General António Guterres met with Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov.
Agenda. According to the Azerbaijani side, the meeting discussed the process of normalizing relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan, as well as issues related to the demining of the region, building trust, and ensuring the return of previously displaced persons.
