We Highly Appreciate the Activities of Peacekeepers in the Lachin Corridor: Pashinyan to Putin

During the Eastern Economic Forum’s seventh annual meeting in Vladivostok, a discussion took place between Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan and President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin.

In his speech, the Russian President noted: "Dear Nikol Vova, we are in constant contact, with regular meetings and phone conversations on current issues; however, meeting you in person today, I find it important to mention that this year we are celebrating the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 25th anniversary of the signing of the fundamental treaty. Our relations are developing in all directions. We are working in our organizations, both in the economic organization and in the CSTO, focusing on ensuring security and stability. In the near future, you plan to participate in the events of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in Uzbekistan, where there will be another opportunity to meet and negotiate with partners."

He added, "Among Armenia's trade and economic partners, Russia confidently maintains the first place. Trade turnover has recently increased by approximately 25-30 percent. We are indeed observing economic stabilization in Armenia. A lot has been done in this regard by your government. Of course, one of the most sensitive issues relates to the security situation surrounding Nagorno-Karabakh. We are constantly discussing this with you, maintaining regular contact. I am pleased to discuss all these topics during your visit to Russia at the Vladivostok Economic Forum. The circle of companies and people collaborating with us is expanding. Soon, business operators are also planning to meet, and a regional forum is set to take place. Other events are also scheduled, including in the fields of humanitarian aid, culture, and education. Thank you very much for accepting the invitation and attending the economic forum in Vladivostok."

In turn, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan remarked: "Thank you very much, Vladimir Vladimirovich. Allow me to once again express my gratitude for the invitation to participate in the Eastern Economic Forum. To be honest, I have enjoyed the forum (it is, of course, still ongoing), and I am impressed by Vladivostok—it’s a wonderful place. I hope there will again be opportunities for visits not just for work but also for other occasions. Certainly, as you mentioned, this year has been a very important year for our relations, marking anniversaries related to both the CSTO and our bilateral relations."

Pashinyan continued: "Russia is Armenia’s closest partner and strategic ally. Especially in these challenging times, constant communication and clarification of positions are very important. You mentioned, and I would also like to highlight the mission of Russian peacekeepers in Nagorno-Karabakh. I must admit, it is not an easy mission at all. We have talked about this many times. We highly appreciate the activities of Russian peacekeepers in Nagorno-Karabakh, particularly in the Lachin corridor, and I think it is crucial to emphasize that. Generally, there are nuances concerning security in Nagorno-Karabakh that we continuously discuss, and I believe today would also be very appropriate to address these issues. Our discussions about trade and economic relations between our countries also have a traditional nature. It is very encouraging that in the post-pandemic period, our trade and economic relations have not only been restored but also show certain positive developments, which we discussed during the forum. Of course, our agenda regarding relations is very rich, and I am confident that today we will also have a meaningful and robust conversation. Again, thank you for the warm welcome."