EU Pivot & Economic Plan: Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan says Armenia is entering its “Fourth Republic” and will soon start the process to apply for EU membership, while also laying out a 2026–2031 government programme focused on peace, diversification and economic resilience. Anti-Corruption Crackdown: Armenia’s Anti-Corruption Committee detained former President Robert Kocharyan and his son Sedrak, charging them in a corruption case tied to alleged illegal acquisition of state property; prosecutors also moved against other officials and business figures. Energy Trade Talks: Armenia and Azerbaijan held working meetings in Lachin on cross-border electricity imports/exports and possible infrastructure interconnection. Iran Economic Push: Economy Minister Gevorg Papoyan met Iran’s ambassador to expand cooperation in trade, investment, energy and logistics, including long-term diesel and LPG supplies, and improving border procedures. Macro Indicators: Consumer prices rose 4.5% in Jan–Jul 2026; electricity generation grew 6.9%; economic activity increased 7.7% with industrial output up 9.5% and construction up 25%. Credit Outlook: S&P affirmed Armenia’s BB-/B ratings with a positive outlook, projecting GDP growth slowing to 4.9% in 2026. Regional Trade Pressure: Russia’s foreign ministry said reduced Armenia trade with Russia/EAEU won’t cause shocks, pointing to sanitary and phytosanitary controls.