French Prime Minister Has a Special Attitude Towards Armenia: What Was Discussed

A meeting took place at the "Matignon" Palace in Paris between Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and newly appointed French Prime Minister Michel Barnier. This is reported by the Government.

"The French Prime Minister welcomed Nikol Pashinyan's visit to France and emphasized his commitment to consistently promote the development of trade and economic cooperation between the two countries. Michel Barnier noted that he has a special attitude towards Armenia and the Armenian people and is ready to further contribute to the continued strengthening of bilateral ties. He warmly recalled the opening of the French Embassy in Armenia in 1995, which he attended.

Nikol Pashinyan once again congratulated Mr. Barnier on his appointment as Prime Minister of France and wished him success. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to his counterpart for his deep dedication to the friendship between the two peoples and for his significant personal contribution to strengthening the exceptional relations between Armenia and France.

The interlocutors highly appreciated the intense dialogue between Armenia and France, emphasizing the importance of developing bilateral economic ties and cooperation in several targeted areas, including energy, digital technologies, urban development, agriculture, tourism, and healthcare.

Nikol Pashinyan noted that the development and diversification of Armenia's economy is one of the priorities of the RA Government, adding that he greatly values the presence of French companies in Armenia. According to the Prime Minister, the Armenian side expects the participation of French companies and investors, particularly in the implementation of projects in infrastructure, nuclear and renewable energy, agriculture, and water sectors.

The Prime Ministers of Armenia and France also greatly valued the upcoming second conference "Ambitions - Armenia-France," which can serve as a unique tool to promote multifaceted cooperation. The interlocutors emphasized the necessity of developing decentralized cooperation aimed at expanding and strengthening ties between regions.

The parties also addressed the recent developments in discussions about a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan, as well as ongoing processes in the South Caucasus region," the statement said.