Armenia is at a Turning Point: How Small Countries Become Major Players, Says Minister

Our mission is clear: Armenia will be a hub of semiconductor knowledge, talent, and innovation for our region and a reliable partner for the world. This was stated by Minister of High-Tech Industry Mikayel Hayrapetyan in an article published on his social media page.

“In recent years, I have had the opportunity to hear two powerful visions from our technological community. One is about how Armenia can become a true producer of semiconductors, and the other is about our greatest potential being to become a global research and development, engineering center. The truth is evident. Both express aspirations and both can advance us. The significant point is this: Armenia no longer questions ‘can we?’ We are the country that says ‘we can.’ We already have internationally recognized engineering talent. We are already hosting world-renowned centers for semiconductor research and development. And we already have global partners who see Armenia not as a follower but as a future investor in the world’s most advanced industries.

Therefore, when people ask me whether Armenia should focus on semiconductor research and development or production, I answer that Armenia will target what we do best; we will build what we believe in. Not because it is easy, but because it is our next benchmark.

We do not need to replicate anyone. We do not need to indulge in false illusions. We must leverage our strengths—our engineers, our creativity, our speed, our resilience—and turn them into global competitive advantages. Step by step. Sector by sector. Innovation by innovation. This is how small countries become major players. And this is how Armenia will strengthen its position in the semiconductor value chain, rather than trying to do everything at once. Armenia will excel where it matters most.

Our mission is clear: Armenia will be a center of semiconductor knowledge, talent, and innovation for our region and a reliable partner for the world. I am proud to see the aspirations of our sector. Let’s continue to challenge each other and keep moving forward together. The future is being built here. And we are just getting started,” wrote the minister.