Prime Minister Introduces Newly Appointed Foreign Minister Ara Ayvazyan

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan visited the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and introduced the newly appointed foreign minister, Ara Ayvazyan. The Prime Minister thanked former minister Zohrab Mnatsakanyan for his work during these challenging times.

“Of course, we are in an extremely complex and difficult period when, considering that the military burden is decreasing in some respects due to certain circumstances, the diplomatic burden is correspondingly increasing, and it is precisely the diplomatic front that is now the most important and challenging. In this regard, I hope that the newly appointed minister will be able to consolidate the entire diplomatic system and focus on solving our national and state issues. I hope that Mr. Mnatsakanyan, who enjoys great respect and authority in the system, will support that effort,” said the Prime Minister.

Pashinyan emphasized the importance of defining issues, as he said, issues arise precisely when we are in the process of defining them. “All of this must be analyzed, conclusions must be drawn, and we should not be afraid to be harsh with ourselves in that process, so that we can emerge from all this stronger,” noted the Prime Minister and wished Ara Ayvazyan success in his future endeavors.

Zohrab Mnatsakanyan thanked the Prime Minister for his trust and cooperation and wished Ara Ayvazyan success. “I have no doubt that Mr. Ayvazyan has the necessary potential to lead the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and advance our national agenda in foreign policy. I would also like to thank you, Mr. Prime Minister, for your trust in the system and for the support provided over these years, which allowed us to further strengthen and professionalize the system. I have no doubt that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has tremendous potential to effectively advance Armenia’s national interests during this responsible period. Furthermore, Mr. Prime Minister, I would like to thank you for the important agenda you are pursuing to strengthen the democratic foundations of Armenia. Foreign policy, after all, is a continuation of internal matters, and our diplomatic capabilities and potential are most successful when our back is strong and we can present ourselves to the world as a strong and self-confident state and people. We are currently going through a very responsible phase, and I have no doubt that this period for our people is characterized by determination to strengthen, consolidate, and secure a free and prosperous life in Armenia,” said Mnatsakanyan.

In turn, Ara Ayvazyan expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Pashinyan for trusting him with the responsible position of Foreign Minister during this difficult time. “As a career diplomat, I perceive your decision as confidence in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia. Based on your proposal, I have made my decision as a civil servant, fully aware of the entire burden of responsibility, but at the same time knowing and feeling that our diplomatic family will provide unconditional support for our sacred cause,” said Ayvazyan.

According to the newly appointed minister, the heroic struggle of Artsakh is gradually shifting from the battlefield to the diplomatic arena, and everyone understands the immense responsibility they have towards the state, the people, and history. “The diplomatic army, the central apparatus, and our diplomatic missions will continue to maximize our potential, 30 years of professional experience, dedication, and determination in order to counter these fateful challenges and find dignified, effective solutions to clear the way. It is commonly said that diplomacy is the art of the possible, and yesterday, today, and tomorrow we have all done and will continue to do our utmost, our best. I am confident that at this stage we will strive to achieve the impossible. Mr. Prime Minister, I want to assure you, our people—citizens of the Republic of Armenia, Artsakh, and our brothers and sisters in the Diaspora—that everyone understands that the present and future of our country depends on them. Once again, thank you, Mr. Prime Minister, and may God assist us,” said the Foreign Minister.

In summary, Prime Minister Pashinyan wished all diplomats success in their future activities and emphasized the importance of the establishment and strengthening of state institutions that will serve the interests of the state and the people.