In the area of security and customs control, it is stated that Armenia’s sovereignty and authority over border and customs operations are absolute and non-negotiable. Armenia's Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan made this statement while commenting on the agreements reached regarding TRIPP.
“It is expected that all border and customs operations will be carried out under border management in accordance with internationally recognized standards, while upholding the principles of the August 8 declaration and using the Front Office, Back Office operational model,” he said.
According to the Minister, the Front Office refers to the primary office or reception area, while the Back Office is the office operating “behind the scenes.”
Front Office services may be provided by private operators selected by the TRIPP development company. The Front Office will handle direct customer-facing services, such as preliminary document collection, provision of information and guidance, collection of trade-related payments, processing of payments, and so on. Front Office operators do not make decisions; they only provide support.
The Back Office will be handled directly by Armenian state authorities. Accordingly, Armenia's customs and border officials will exercise all sovereign powers as defined by Armenian legislation. No sovereign functions will be delegated.
“Armenian officials will maintain a physical presence at all Armenian border and customs facilities. No sovereign functions will be delegated,” he said.
