Armenia Explores Diversified Gas Supplies Amid Price Concerns

Armenia's Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan announced on September 17 that his country is negotiating gas imports from all potential countries, including Russia, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan. The negotiations are aimed at diversifying Armenia's energy sources and reducing its dependence on Russian gas supplies.

Pashinyan stated that the talks with these countries are underway on various issues, but did not provide specific details on supply volumes or prices. He also linked the gas issue to a broader review of Armenian-Russian relations, which he described as 'multilayered' with numerous problems and opportunities.

Regarding the possible increase in the price of Russian gas, Pashinyan urged against basing policy on worst-case scenarios, stating that the authorities will make necessary decisions if the need arises. The majority of natural gas consumed in Armenia comes from Russia, supplied through Georgia, while some is also imported from Iran under a 'gas for electricity' scheme.