Part of gas pipeline supplying Armenia with Russian gas via Georgia to be relocated

Plans are underway to relocate a 5.5-kilometre section of the gas pipeline supplying Armenia with Russian gas via Georgia, situated on the Armenian-Georgian border. Armenia requested this relocation, and a formal application has been submitted to Georgia’s Ministry of Environment. The move aims to address concerns regarding the pipeline’s location within the border area of Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan, a zone previously mined during the 1990s.

Officials are discussing the shift, which will involve connecting to a new pipeline built by Armenia, several kilometers away. The decision stems from the impossibility of ensuring safety and conducting repairs due to the hazardous conditions. Political analysts suggest a connection to the ongoing delimitation and demarcation process between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

The gas infrastructure runs through an area where the borders of the three countries intersect, potentially complicating demining efforts. Gazprom reports a 40.4% increase in gas supplies to Georgia in 2025, significantly higher than to Central Asian countries. Ruben Mehrabyan, a political analyst, expressed concerns about the justification for the expenditure, stating that “more information is needed to understand whether these expenses are necessary and why taxpayers should cover them.” He linked the decision to enhanced security measures along the Armenia-Azerbaijan border, including fortification works and weapons replenishment.

Samvel Meliksetyan, another analyst, highlighted the pipeline’s Soviet-era origins and the need to adjust infrastructure now that borders are state lines, noting its proximity to the Azerbaijani border. He believes the change would remove the need for coordination with Azerbaijan and address potential issues related to the Verin Voskepar enclave. Given the ongoing war in Iran, concerns exist about increased economic pressure on Armenia’s energy system.

The relocation is anticipated to further safeguard the gas supply to armenia, georgia.

Topics: #gas #armenia #georgia