Yerevan and Beijing establish strategic partnership

Armenia and China have raised their relations to the level of strategic partnership. The corresponding statement was made at the meeting between Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Chinese President Xi Jinping held in China on August 31.

The Chinese leader noted that the establishment of a strategic partnership marks an important stage in the development of relations between Beijing and Yerevan.

He stated that China and Armenia should maintain friendship, support each other, deepen cooperation and strive for new achievements.

Speaking about the development of bilateral relations, Xi Jinping drew attention to the fact that in this context, the active work of the intergovernmental commission on economic cooperation with Armenia is very important. According to the Chairman of the People's Republic of China, it should fully unlock the potential of bilateral economic cooperation and take consistent steps toward implementation. He also called for joint efforts in the development of the "One Belt - One Road" initiative.

In addition to this, the Chinese leader welcomed the peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan, stating his support to Yerevan's accession to the SCO.

In turn, Nikol Pashinyan expressed hope for a consistent increase in the level of trade and economic cooperation and the implementation of new joint investment programs. He noted that the Armenian authorities are interested in expanding Chinese companies' investment projects in Armenia.

During the meeting, both parties also emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation in the fields of science, education, culture, tourism, information, metrology and other areas.