Credit & Finance: Fitch affirmed Armenia’s sovereign “BB” rating with a positive outlook, citing stable macro policy, strong growth, and improving public-debt and deficit trends. Digital Security: Armenia’s Ministry of Technology and Industry and the EU’s EEAS confirmed they’re ready to keep working on Armenia’s digital sector and cybersecurity, including training and technical support for state institutions. Armenia–France Tech & Innovation: PM Nikol Pashinyan told French President Emmanuel Macron that Armenia-France ties have reached an “unprecedented” level, with cooperation expanding into innovations, AI, climate, and biodiversity. Startup & AI Talent: The Seaside Startup Summit Armenia 2026 will run July 26–Aug 1 in Sevan with about 2,000 participants, while the Global Armenian AI Girls Award (ages 13–19) launches to train and mentor young AI talent. Connectivity & Development: Armenia joined the “Trade over Aid” initiative, pitching it as a way to build national capacity and attract investment, with UNDP support. Robotics in Healthcare: Armenia carried out its first robotic remote surgery at Slavmed Medical Center, signaling a new step for local medical tech. EU People-to-People Links: The European Commission signed Letters of Intent with six Armenian organizations under “Cooperation for People-to-People Connectivity.” Policy & Oversight: Armenia’s Foreign Intelligence Service proposed changes to rules for installing communications equipment on state buildings, including extra consent steps near sensitive facilities.