Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met with Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan in Yerevan, reaffirming the allied nature of Armenia-Russia relations.

“In January, my colleague Ararat Mirzoyan visited Moscow, and now I’m in Yerevan. A regional forum will be held soon. Importantly, in the fall of 2024, our leaders agreed to fully restore our contacts. At least regarding the foreign ministries, we are fulfilling that mandate,” Lavrov stated.

He highlighted the value of open discussions: “These were very useful, open conversations—without ignoring any nuances. While our positions may not align 100% on everything, being open and honest helps us implement what is mutually beneficial for both Armenia and the Russian Federation. We are allies, we are strategic partners. Today we once again confirmed our allied relations and mutual commitment to our obligations. It was a politically significant moment, including on a public level.”

President Khachaturyan praised Lavrov’s visit, noting it plays a significant role in Armenian-Russian relations, which have seen renewed activity this year. He expressed hope that this process would continue.

Khachaturyan also extended greetings to Russian President Vladimir Putin, recalling their last meeting in Turkmenistan, which he said took place in a positive and engaging atmosphere.

“I am convinced your visit continues the dialogue we’ve been having. We appreciate the positive aspects of our relationship and must build on them. As you said, our relations should develop under mutually beneficial conditions. And when misunderstandings arise, they must be addressed openly and honestly. Open conversations make it possible to resolve all issues,” Khachaturyan stated.

He noted that Valentina Matvienko’s visit to Armenia is expected this year, along with Armenian Cultural Days in Russia, both of which hold significance.

“I’m confident that the steps taken by both Armenian and Russian leadership aim to further develop our bilateral relations across all areas. The proposals from both sides on regional issues, security, and bilateral cooperation are important to us. I appreciate your visit in this context and believe it will strengthen our relations,” he added.

During the meeting, the sides discussed strengthening multi-level cooperation between the two countries, emphasizing opportunities for economic and decentralized collaboration. They also stressed the importance of boosting infrastructure investment and ongoing infrastructure development.

The parties exchanged views on the regional situation, underscoring the importance of establishing lasting and stable peace. It was emphasized that cooperation must be based on mutual respect, trust, and shared benefits.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, in a separate meeting with the Russian delegation led by Lavrov, also addressed the current stage of Armenian-Russian relations. Key topics of the bilateral agenda and collaboration within the Eurasian Economic Union were discussed, along with regional and international security issues.