Church-State Clash: Armenia’s government program for 2026–2031 formally moves to dismiss Catholicos Karekin II, set up an interim church authority, and rewrite church statutes—sparking renewed pushback from the Armenian Apostolic Church over political interference. Foreign Policy & Diplomacy: Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan told the SCO+ summit in Bishkek that Armenia is pursuing a “multipolar” balanced foreign policy, deepening ties with Iran and Georgia while building interstate relations with Azerbaijan and Türkiye, including via TRIPP. TRIPP Connectivity: Pashinyan said TRIPP’s on-the-ground work will start in coming months and that the project should benefit the whole region through new East–West and South–North transport links. Regional Peace Messaging: Azerbaijan’s Ilham Aliyev echoed that the South Caucasus is becoming a “zone of peace” after the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace process. EU Outreach: Armenia’s parliament speaker met the EU delegation head to discuss deeper Armenia–EU relations and opening regional communications. Ministry Renaming: Armenia’s Foreign Ministry has been renamed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, effective September 1. Armenia–Vietnam Ties: Pashinyan met Vietnam’s vice president on SCO+ sidelines, emphasizing expanding political, economic, and cultural cooperation. Energy & Trade: An expert warns Armenia’s growing electricity import plans—especially from Azerbaijan—could shift the focus from building domestic generation to dependence on imports. Rail Freight Update: Russian Railways says freight traffic to Armenia has increased, citing expanded transit opportunities via Azerbaijan. Sports: Unisport qualified for the UEFA Futsal Champions League main round after three straight wins.