UAE Investment Push: Armenia’s Economy Minister Gevorg Papoyan joined the UAE’s 15th Annual Investment Meeting in Dubai, urging easier access for Armenian exporters to the UAE market and proposing a practical contacts mechanism, standards guidance, and B2B visits. EU Readmission Step: Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan and Latvia’s Baiba Braže signed a protocol to implement the EU-Armenia readmission deal for people residing without authorization. Church-State Clash: Etchmiadzin’s Mother See condemned “inappropriate events” at Hovhannavank, tied to a defrocked priest, and called on authorities to restore the legal status of seized churches; the dispute is also fueling wider public anger and protests. Legal Pressure in Church Case: Prosecutor Khachatur Galstyan resigned from the case against Catholicos Karekin II and senior bishops, with the Prosecutor-General’s Office saying it was his own request. Humanitarian Update: The ICRC is scaling back border social programs in Armenia but says it still awaits approval to revisit Armenians held in Azerbaijan. Public Health Alert: Armenia’s NCDC urged Byureghavan residents to temporarily stop using tap water after new E. coli-related hospitalizations. Road Infrastructure: Yerevan Mayor Tigran Avinyan announced three major road junction projects, including an ADB-financed interchange and overpass. Regional Connectivity: Armenia and Georgia discussed expanding direct air links to boost tourism, business, and freight logistics. Economy Watch: EDB analysts say Armenia’s growth stays high, with GDP growth around 6% in 2026 supported by services, construction, tourism, and remittances.