Tourism & Economy: Armenia’s economy is still growing fast, and tourism is a big reason: World Bank data says economic activity rose 8% year-on-year in Jan–May 2026, with May growth driven by non-tradable services like tourism, hospitality, transport and IT; tourist visits in the first half of 2026 jumped 14.8% to over 1 million, with 40% coming from Russia. Travel Risk Watch: The World Bank warns that expanding Russian restrictions on Armenian agricultural and food exports could spill beyond trade—hitting growth, inflation and social conditions—after exports to Russia fell 15% in May. Visa & Border Notes: Iran’s visa waiver list for 2026 includes Armenia (along with Egypt as the only African country), meaning eligible travelers can enter without standard visa procedures. Armenia–France Ties: President Vahagn Khachaturyan visited the French Embassy for Bastille Day, highlighting cooperation in Syunik and defense/high-tech/AI, plus progress on the Armenia–EU strategic partnership. Local Travel Ideas: A budget guide suggests easy summer escapes across Armenia—from Lake Sevan and Dilijan to Tsaghkadzor and monasteries—mapped to spending levels for day trips and weekends. MICE Spotlight: Armenia was recognized at the MICE Excellence 2026 Awards for business and corporate event development.