"We have continued the normalization process with Turkey and have considerable mutual understanding on several issues. It is now evidently time for us to see concrete agreements being implemented on the ground," said Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan during the discussion of the 2023 state budget performance in the National Assembly.
Bilateral Relations:
Regarding bilateral relations, Mirzoyan noted that Armenia’s primary efforts and goals have been directed towards its immediate neighbors and the development of these relationships. He highlighted that relations with Georgia and Iran have deepened.
Mirzoyan emphasized that in relations with Iran, primarily in the economic direction, significant achievements have been made. Effective steps have been taken to develop and deepen relations with France, the USA, and the EU.
Relations with Russia:
"Our relations with Russia are perhaps the most transparent. Essentially, the public and you are fully informed about the processes," the minister noted.
Regarding relations with individual European countries, Mirzoyan mentioned that there has been significant activation. He recalled his visit to the United Kingdom and the initiation of strategic dialogue with the UK.
Among other active directions, Mirzoyan mentioned the Middle East. Without going into many details, he reminded that Armenia has established diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia, Botswana, and Trinidad and Tobago.
Regarding relations with Saudi Arabia, the minister said, "I will not stop repeating that this was an effort and goal around which Armenian diplomacy has worked for decades and there has been no final result until now".
In 2023, Armenia actively continued and developed relations with India and China.
Multilateral Formats:
Regarding multilateral formats, the minister noted that Armenia has maintained active involvement in several international platforms, including the UN, EU, EAEU, and UNESCO.
"It is very important that in 2023 Armenia won all five elections where it nominated its candidates," the minister said.
Regarding the CSTO, he recalled that Armenia has essentially frozen its participation. "There are no significant developments here for 2023", said Ararat Mirzoyan.
In 2023, Armenia had diplomatic relations with 182 countries.
Regarding plans for 2024, the minister reminded that the government has already made decisions to open a consulate general in Tabriz, establish an embassy in Cyprus, and open a diplomatic office in Serbia.
