FM Lavrov: Armenia is Russia’s natural ally, strategic partner

Russia views Armenia as its natural strategic partner and ally and remains committed to fostering good neighbourly relations, said Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

During a meeting with Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan, Lavrov noted that, last year was not an easy one for bilateral relations, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

"Today, we aim to have an open discussion in the spirit of the atmosphere maintained by our leaders—President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan—on all issues on the agenda that are important to you and to the Russian Federation," Lavrov said during the talks in Moscow.

Expressing optimism, Lavrov added, "I am convinced we will address all existing problems constructively. We have always valued, and continue to value, the fraternal ties with the Armenian people and Armenia, our natural strategic partner and ally."

The minister further highlighted the importance of strengthening the long-standing traditions of friendship and cooperation between the two nations. "We are interested in ensuring that centuries-old traditions of friendship and good neighbourliness are strengthened and developed," Lavrov remarked.

He pointed to regular high-level meetings and sustained dialogue between economic institutions as a solid foundation for deepening ties.

Moreover, according to Lavrov, the cooperation between Russia and Armenia within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) framework has yielded remarkable trade results.

“We just spoke about trade and economic relations, which are on the rise. Trade turnover has reached record levels—almost $12 billion last year, according to statistics. Our collaboration, both bilaterally and within the framework of the Eurasian Economic Union, ensures such impressive results,” Lavrov remarked

By Aghakazim Guliyev