Energy & State Assets: Armenia’s government plans to transfer Electric Networks of Armenia CJSC to trust management, with further state-owned production facilities to be privatized via open tenders while keeping state stakes and board seats. Central Banking: The Central Bank of Armenia updated rules for electronic money issuance and use, removing the mandatory bank account/card requirement for e-wallets and allowing cash top-ups and withdrawals, aiming to boost competition and access. Tech & Investment: Armenia officially opened the Firebird AI Factory in Hrazdan, with PM Nikol Pashinyan calling it a milestone for the tech sector and investment climate; the project is tied to international partnerships and NVIDIA involvement. EU/EAEU Politics & Trade: Strong Armenia says it will revitalize the European Integration Committee to drive real EU trade growth and “localize” European institutions, while opposition voices warn TRIPP could limit sovereignty and question “unimpeded passage.” Plastics Regulation: Armenia will ban polyethylene bags and a range of single-use plastic items from Jan 1, 2027, with fines for repeat violations. Armenia Economy Data: Domestic trade turnover rose 0.9% in H1 2026 to AMD 3.16 trillion; agricultural output fell 10.2% to AMD 345.1 billion. Regional Peace & Connectivity: Armenia, Azerbaijan and the U.S. marked the Washington Summit’s first anniversary with a joint statement, while a Washington trilateral meeting discussed TRIPP implementation and border delimitation steps. Business & Society: Armenia’s “Power of One Dram” initiative named Orran as August beneficiary, supporting school prep for vulnerable children.