Pashinyan: Armenia to adopt best European standards in Bargushat  tunnel  construction  

ArmInfo. On May 5, several documents aimed at the further development of Armenian-French relations were signed in Yerevan.

Specifically, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and French  President Emmanuel Macron signed a Declaration on Strategic  Partnership. The parties also signed agreements on cooperation in  artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and semiconductors,  agreements on cooperation in the development of military technologies  and defense systems research, and on the supply of military uniforms.  The parties agreed on the supply of transport helicopters, the sale  of two A321-200NX aircraft to an Armenian airline, and the  construction of the Bargushat tunnel in southern Armenia. A series of  documents on credit, economic, and cultural cooperation were also  signed.

Speaking at a briefing after the signing of the documents, Nikol  Pashinyan emphasized the significance of the agreements. The Prime  Minister noted that this project is not merely about building a  tunnel, but rather about introducing the best European expertise in  road construction and applying European standards within Armenia.  Pashinyan expressed confidence that Armenian contractors would be  involved in the construction process, allowing them to adopt  international best practices and creating significant opportunities  for the growth of the national economy.

The Prime Minister underscored the pivotal role of the French  President in advancing bilateral relations, noting that many projects  are becoming a reality thanks to Emmanuel Macron's active  involvement.  Pashinyan described the Bargushat tunnel as a  "super-project," clarifying that it covers the most challenging  section of the transport corridor, requiring specialized capabilities  and experience.  "On this issue, as on many others, France and  Emmanuel Macron stand by Armenia," the Prime Minister stated.