On September 18, Nikol Pashinyan, the Prime Minister of Armenia, discussed multiple domestic and international issues in a conversation with journalists, emphasizing the strong and growing strategic partnership between Armenia and China, including opportunities for mutual investments and regional infrastructure development.

He highlighted that the strategic partnership agreement signed with Chinese President Xi Jinping provides their respective business communities with positive political signals to expand economic and other relations while acknowledging challenges related to distance and transportation.

Pashinyan addressed the ongoing return of Armenian prisoners from Azerbaijan, stating that authorities are working daily on the matter but that no clear results were available yet. He also clarified that he is not aware of any incidents involving the head of the Cadastre Committee, reaffirming that all individuals are equal before the law and that criminal liability applies in all cases subject to prosecution. He confirmed that no resignations are expected in the government, particularly at the deputy prime minister level, and stressed that debates within the ruling Civil Contract party are normal and are conducted according to healthy political logic.

Regarding state symbolism, Pashinyan explained the decision to remove the image of Mount Ararat from border stamps as a measure to strengthen Armenia’s statehood, sovereignty, and international legitimacy, noting that this issue is separate from negotiations with Turkey. He also commented on the Goris-Kapan section of the road, stating that Armenian armed forces were deployed to internationally recognized borders and emphasizing that transport issues, including the "Trump route" program, will be addressed based on agreed-upon principles such as reciprocity.

On judicial matters, the Prime Minister reported that the "March 1" case is being adjudicated in the courts following a ruling by the European Court of Human Rights, urging law enforcement to ensure accountability. He dismissed rumors about being an agent or corruption within the government as false, asserting that all cases have been properly investigated, and highlighted housing achievements, noting that 53,000 families purchased new apartments from the post-revolutionary period until April 2024.

Pashinyan also discussed regional connectivity, announcing that unblocking communications will establish a railway connection between Armenia and Iran, enhancing economic cooperation and transit potential for Armenia, Iran, and Azerbaijan, and confirmed that the North-South Highway is progressing well. He stressed the importance of standardization in construction and regulatory compliance, citing past incidents like the Surmalu explosion to underline the need for adherence to safety and quality standards.