February 4, 2025 - 11:41 AMT
Armenia-U.S. framework not dependent on political shifts

The strategic partnership agreement signed between Armenia and the U.S. is an institutional framework that is not dependent on the political leadership in Washington or other domestic political factors in the U.S., Deputy Foreign Minister Paruyr Hovhannisyan said.

He emphasized that the Armenia-U.S. Strategic Partnership Charter, signed on January 14, 2025, in Washington, holds both political and practical significance. He also noted that the strategic dialogue framework was originally established during former President Donald Trump’s administration, Armenpress reports.

"Armenia and the U.S. had already elevated their relationship in 2019, working within the strategic dialogue format. In June 2023, a decision was made to raise relations to the level of a strategic partnership, establishing a commission for that purpose. This followed months of intensive diplomatic engagement, including high-level delegations, congressional visits, and decentralized cooperation efforts."

Hovhannisyan stressed that four key areas are outlined in the agreement for deepened cooperation:

-Economic cooperation: New opportunities in trade diversification and resilience-building for Armenia.

-Security and defense: Joint military exercises, U.S. support for border security, and increased U.S. assistance.

-Democracy and justice: Strengthening rule of law and governance reforms with continued U.S. support.

-People-to-people ties: Expanding humanitarian, educational, and cultural programs to reinforce bilateral relations.

Hovhannisyan dismissed concerns about the timing of the agreement with an outgoing U.S. administration, noting that the strategic dialogue began under Trump’s first administration.

"This process is independent of political shifts in Washington. These are institutional mechanisms not tied to any particular administration. On the contrary, this agreement provides a solid foundation for cooperation with the incoming administration."

He confirmed that U.S. agencies were fully coordinated in the transition period, ensuring continuity. Additionally, Armenia has joined the Global Coalition Against ISIS, reaffirming its commitment to counterterrorism cooperation with the U.S.

Hovhannisyan also noted that talks on energy cooperation will continue under the new administration and that Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s visit to Washington will further strengthen Armenia-U.S. ties.