Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia

01/21/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/21/2025 12:46

Statement by the Foreign Minister of Armenia during the joint press conference with the Foreign Minister of Russia

Statement by the Foreign Minister of Armenia during the joint press conference with the Foreign Minister of Russia

21 January, 2025

Dear Mr. Lavrov,

Dear colleagues,

First of all, I would like to thank Mr. Lavrov for organizing this visit and for the traditional hospitality. I must say that preparations for this visit have been ongoing for almost three months, but it was postponed several times due to technical reasons, nonetheless, we have finally managed to meet. Mr. Lavrov, I will be honored and gladly look forward to welcoming you in Yerevan.

I would like to note that today's meeting took place in a sincere and constructive atmosphere. The range of issues discussed was quite comprehensive and diverse. We touched upon issues on bilateral cooperation and, of course, the topic of peace in the South Caucasus.

In the context of developing bilateral relations, we emphasized the importance of maintaining the intensity of political dialogue at all levels, including through the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, along with continuing mutually beneficial cooperation in various sectoral areas. We noted the positive trend in the development of Armenian-Russian dialogue in the humanitarian sphere. As you mentioned, Mr. Lavrov, among other events this year, Armenian culture days are planned to be held in Russia.

While highlighting the need to continue inter-MFA consultations, we also discussed the current situation in the media space and ways to create a more favorable information environment.

An important component of our cooperation is, of course, the economy. Here the numbers speak for themselves. As you know, in December the meeting of the intergovernmental commission on economic cooperation took place. For Armenia, trade and economic cooperation, including within the framework of the EAEU, remains one of the key factors contributing to economic growth and the realization of foreign trade potential. In this context, for example, I would like to highlight the granting of observer status to the Islamic Republic of Iran in the EAEU last year, specifically under the chairmanship of the Republic of Armenia.

Dear colleagues,

Armenia, located at a unique crossroads, can make a significant contribution to the development of interregional connectivity, helping to enhance the logistical attractiveness of the region. This is precisely the goal of the "Crossroads of Peace" project, developed and presented by the Government of the Republic of Armenia. The project is based on respect for the sovereignty and jurisdiction of all states, as well as equality and reciprocity. I am pleased to emphasize that this project has received positive feedback from a number of international organizations and countries, including Russia.

We also touched upon the issues of peace and stability in the South Caucasus.

I would like to emphasize that despite all the difficulties and challenges along this path, Armenia continues to make sincere efforts to achieve long-term and lasting peace, which, as we see it, is in line with the interests of all the countries in our region.

Dear colleagues,

In conclusion, I would like to once again thank the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Mr. Lavrov, for the thorough exchange of views, expressing the hope that today's discussions will serve to strengthen mutual understanding and continue further mutually beneficial cooperation on key priorities.