EU Trade Relief for Armenian Exports: The EU Council approved temporary tariff liberalization for about 80% of Armenian exports, keeping preferential access for two years and covering much of fresh produce plus beverages and spirits, with rules-of-origin and origin/admin cooperation conditions. TRIPP Transit Push: Armenia’s U.S. ambassador says TRIPP feasibility work is due to finish this year and construction could start in early 2027, framing the corridor as key to peace talks while Armenia tries to balance ties with Russia and Iran. Chip Diplomacy & AI Industry: The Wall Street Journal reports U.S. negotiators linked expanded Nvidia AI chip access for Armenia’s Firebird data-center project to the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace process—an industrial and tech lever now tied to diplomacy. Nuclear Fuel Storage Talks: Armenia and the Czech Republic are discussing cooperation on spent fuel storage and reprocessing for the ANPP, with storage use expected via existing Czech facilities. Energy & Grid Upgrades: ENA is modernizing 27 distribution substations in 2026 to improve supply quality. Climate Risk Watch: IMF warns Armenia’s heat and water risks are rising and that climate/energy reforms may strain vulnerable households unless social protection and targeting are strengthened. Tourism Showcase: TOUR EXPO 2026 opened in Yerevan, aiming to make the event annual and connect regional tourism businesses. Syunik Airport Expansion: Syunik Airport says it’s ready to support new routes and move toward international status, pending customs, border, and phytosanitary services. Agriculture Market Pressure: A Russian deputy PM doubts Armenia can fully reorient away from Russia, as Rosselkhoznadzor restrictions continue affecting Armenian quarantine products and producers report losses.