On October 24, 2024, Martin Galstyan, the Governor of the Central Bank of Armenia, and Ambassador Lilit Makunts met with Dr. Sethuraman Panchanathan, Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF) of the United States.
The purpose of the meeting was to promote the enhancement of cooperation in science, technology, and innovation between Armenia and the United States, and explore the opportunity of the establishment of the Armenia-U.S. Science Foundation.
Dr. Panchanathan outlined the NSF's key objectives and values, emphasizing the importance of fostering opportunities for scientific excellence nationwide and highlighting the role of international partnerships in advancing scientific research.
Governor Galstyan took the opportunity to showcase Armenia's vibrant tech ecosystem, which has rapidly developed into a regional hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Ambassador Makunts suggested that the NSF consider a visit to Armenia to explore collaborative and mutually beneficial opportunities of cooperation that would benefit both nations. Both Dr. Panchanathan and the Armenian delegation recognized the significant scientific potential of the Armenian-American community in the U.S. and its potential contributions to both countries.
The meeting concluded with a detailed presentation from the Office of International Science and Engineering, featuring insights into specific NSF programs, with participation from Armenian Central Bank Deputy Governor Armen Nurbekyan, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Armenian Embassy to the United States Arthur Grigoryan, and NSF Program Directors.
The U.S. National Science Foundation is an independent federal agency that supports science and engineering in all 50 states and U.S. territories.
NSF was established in 1950 by Congress to promote the progress of science, advance the national health, prosperity and welfare, and secure the national defense.
