TRIPP & AI Infrastructure: Armenia’s FM Ararat Mirzoyan met U.S. peace-mission adviser Aryeh Lightstone and discussed fast rollout of TRIPP and the first phase of Firebird’s “AI factory” data center, alongside plans to strengthen trade, connectivity, and economic/energy resilience. Power Sector Regulation: Armenia’s Public Services Regulatory Commission extended Gazprom Armenia’s Hrazdan-5 thermal unit license until Aug 13, 2027 (467 MW, combined-cycle operation). Industrial Prices: Armenia’s industrial producer price index rose sharply in H1 2026 (108.9% vs 2025), while consumer inflation also climbed, driven mainly by food. Local Court Fight: Yerevan’s “Multi Wellness Complex” is challenging the municipality’s early lease termination in court, after the city moved to resume operations under a new name. Energy Trade: Armenia and Iran discussed boosting gas-for-electricity swap volumes after a new 400 kW power line, with a working group to follow. Transport Projects: North-South Project Steering Council approved tender steps for supervision/consulting on the Kajaran tunnel and Sisian-Kajaran road sections. Banking Watch: Union of Banks of Armenia flags geopolitical uncertainty and rising consumer loan debt as key risks, as capital buffers tighten. Environment Tech: Ucom and FPWC installed solar-powered monitoring stations in Gnishik for 24/7 wildlife surveillance.