YEREVAN, April 19, 2026 – A large car rally from Yerevan to Gyumri set off today to mark the official opening of the Ashtarak-Gyumri section of the North-South highway. The event, announced by Nikol Pashinyan on his social media page, aimed to celebrate the infrastructure development and promote tourism in Gyumri.
Rally Details and Pashinyan’s Initiative
The rally, which began this morning, required participants to register their vehicles and have at least one passenger acting as a navigator. This was due to the rally being streamed live on Nikol Pashinyan’s Facebook page, with navigators responsible for relaying information to drivers from the live broadcast.
Pashinyan had previously outlined the day’s itinerary, which included a comprehensive tour of Gyumri. Participants were encouraged to visit local museums, churches, cafes, and restaurants, and to interact with the community. The day’s events were set to culminate in a concert at Vardanants Square at 5:00 PM, featuring a performance by the “Varchabend” band. The return journey from Gyumri was planned to be individual, not as a convoy.
Impact on Local Tourism and Economy
The initiative is expected to boost local tourism and economic activity in Gyumri, a city known for its rich history and cultural heritage. By encouraging visitors to explore its attractions and engage with local businesses, the rally aims to provide a significant, albeit temporary, influx of visitors and revenue to the region.
Broader Context of Infrastructure Development
The opening of the Ashtarak-Gyumri section is a crucial step in the ongoing North-South highway project, which aims to connect Armenia’s northern and southern borders with a high-quality road network. Such infrastructure improvements are vital for enhancing trade, facilitating travel, and strengthening regional ties.
Public Reaction and Future Prospects
While the rally itself focused on celebratory aspects, the broader implications of the highway’s completion are significant for Armenia’s development. Improved connectivity can lead to reduced travel times, lower transportation costs, and increased accessibility to various regions of the country. The public’s engagement with the event, as indicated by the reported viewership and participation, highlights the interest in such national development projects.
The event concluded with the concert in Gyumri, and participants were then free to return at their own pace, reflecting a day of both celebration and practical engagement with Armenia’s evolving infrastructure.
Source: https://mamul.am/am/news/357025
