US and Armenia detail plan for key transit corridor in the Caucasus

The United States and Armenia have finalized a detailed framework to implement a landmark transit corridor through the South Caucasus, a project designed to reshape regional trade and connectivity. The agreement, announced Tuesday after a meeting between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan, outlines the corporate and operational structure for developing the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP).

Corporate Structure and Long-Term Control

Under the framework, a new entity, the TRIPP Development Company, will be established to build and manage the corridor's rail, road, energy, and digital infrastructure within Armenian territory. Crucially, the company will be granted development rights for an initial term of 49 years, with the United States holding a 74% controlling stake and Armenia retaining 26%. According to the plan, the agreement is expected to be extended for another 50 years, at which point Armenia's share would increase to 49%, while the US maintains majority control. Armenian officials emphasized that Yerevan retains full sovereignty and legal jurisdiction over all project areas.

A Geopolitical and Economic Landmark

The TRIPP corridor, first agreed upon at a White House summit last August, aims to create a vital link connecting mainland Azerbaijan with its Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic via southern Armenia. Secretary Rubio framed the project as a transformative opportunity for Armenia, stating it "opens up Armenia for business and allows it to prosper economically," while ensuring it "doesn't in any way infringe upon the sovereignty of Armenia." He suggested the arrangement could become a global model for fostering economic activity without compromising territorial integrity.

Broader Context for Regional Stability

This infrastructure pact is a key component of a broader US-brokered diplomatic push to stabilize the volatile South Caucasus following decades of conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The August summit that birthed the TRIPP concept also saw the leaders of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and the United States initial a 17-point peace agreement. That wider deal includes commitments to respect sovereignty, refrain from force, establish diplomatic relations, and finalize border demarcation. The corridor's development is viewed as a critical confidence-building measure intended to lock in mutual economic interests as a foundation for lasting peace.