Credit & Growth: Fitch Ratings affirmed Armenia’s sovereign rating at BB- (positive outlook), citing stable macro policy, strong growth, and improving debt and deficit trends, with 2026 GDP growth forecast around 5.2%. EU Cooperation: Armenia and the EU moved ahead on digital and cybersecurity capacity-building as an EU Partnership Mission was formally launched, with Estonia also discussing trade and public-administration cooperation. Energy Regulation: Armenia’s Public Services Regulatory Commission met an IMF delegation on tariff-setting and energy market development, including electricity competition and investment-program impacts on tariffs. Business Climate & Disputes: A court rejected Tashir Capital’s bid to overturn the government’s handling of 70% of ENA shares, while separate reports say Tsarukyan-linked firms remain sealed, triggering worker protests over lost pay and prolonged downtime. Innovation & Startups: The Seaside Startup Summit Armenia 2026 is set for late July into August in Sevan, backed by state funding and aimed at boosting Armenian tech entrepreneurship and international links. Demographics: Armenia’s birth rate continues to fall, with officials pointing to the need for stronger housing and family support policies. Armenia-France Ties: PM Pashinyan sent a National Day message to France’s Macron, stressing deepening strategic partnership across economy, defense, education, and innovation. Markets & Trade: Armenia’s trade and investment outlook also remains shaped by ongoing regional pressures, including Russia-related restrictions affecting some Armenian exports.