The Russian side is ready to discuss with Yerevan the parameters of Moscow’s possible participation in the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) project, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin told Izvestia newspaper.
“As for the ‘Trump Route’ project, we [i.e. Russia] have reserved our position. The details of the Armenian-American initiative still need to be studied. We are ready to consult with our Yerevan colleagues to discuss both the parameters and possible Russian participation in one way or another,” the Russian diplomat said.
Galuzin recalled that until 2038, Armenia’s railway network is under the management of a subsidiary of Russian Railways OJSC, a Russian-gauge railway is used in Armenia, and Russian border guards are stationed on the country’s border with Iran.
“It also should be taken into account the factor of Armenia’s membership in the EAEU. In these conditions, it is obvious that partners cannot figure out without Russia,” the Russian deputy FM emphasized.
Also, Galuzin noted that significant work experience has already been accumulated within the framework of the trilateral format of Russia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan—at the level of deputy prime ministers—towards unblocking communications in the region.