ArmInfo.TRIPP is first and foremost an instrument of peace and is not limited to economic benefits for Armenia, as stated by Armenian Minister of Economy Gevorg Papoyan in an interview with Civilnet.
He mentioned that in 2024, when he was appointed minister, economic growth or investment were not being discussed in Armenia. The main topic, he said, was a possible escalation. "We only discussed the direction from which Azerbaijan might launch another attack. And today, just one and a half to two years later, we are already talking about peace, stability, and economic programs worth hundreds of millions and billions of dollars," Papoyan emphasized. In response to the interviewer's comment that many experts view TRIPP as a project with less with limited economic potential due to its relatively modest estimated profits, the Minister noted that TRIPP, as the world's largest instrument, will have a multiplier economic effect. He cited the tourism sector as an example: establishing peace in the country will lead to an increase in tourist flows, which, in turn, will create a significant economic impact.
The projected turnover and profits from the project, according to Papoyan, will increase given the railway's capacity and future prospects. The Minister pointed out that the route will pass through flat terrain, enabling the transportation of more railcars. "In this regard, the Kars-Akhalkalaki and Kasakh-Ijevan railways cannot be compared to this route," he emphasized.
