By H.E. Viktor Biyagov, Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia
I am filled with hope that in the next three, ten, even one hundred decades, the citizens of Armenia will be living in the long-awaited peace and prosperity to which we aspire.
On August 8, during the Washington Peace Summit, we witnessed a historic moment: the initialling of the Agreement on the Establishment of Peace and Inter-State Relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
While this marks a significant step toward enduring peace in our troubled region, it still requires consistent and unwavering efforts to bring our nations closer to peace with each passing day. Addressing humanitarian concerns and fostering trust-building initiatives remain of utmost importance.
One of the key steps toward broader regional engagement is the unblocking of infrastructure and communication channels, anchored in the universal principles of sovereignty, the inviolability of borders, equality, and reciprocity.
The TRIPP connectivity project aims to contribute directly to these efforts by enhancing regional cooperation, economic integration, and long-term stability.
As a country steadily progressing along the path of democracy, Armenia views peace as an integral and inseparable element of its democratic development—a path that will never be subject to compromise. Armenia’s democratic aspirations have increasingly taken root across various sectors of governance, driving reforms, strengthening institutions, and deepening our commitment to justice, transparency, and the rule of law.
Armenia’s economy has emerged as one of the most promising and rapidly developing in the wider region. The country continues to demonstrate dynamic growth across sectors ranging from tourism and high-tech innovation to agriculture, renewable energy, construction, and infrastructure development—offering a favourable investment climate and diverse opportunities.
Despite our steadfast efforts, we deeply value and rely on the support of our allies, with the Netherlands standing out as one of the most committed partners in our pursuit of progress and resilience. This year marked a special milestone in our bilateral relations, elevating them to a strategic partnership. The document formalising this partnership was signed by Ministers Mirzoyan and Veldkamp in Yerevan on March 12—a landmark step for deepening cooperation in multiple sectors.
The Government of the Netherlands has consistently demonstrated invaluable support on issues of vital importance to Armenia. A recent example is the €14 million contribution through the Global Concessional Financing Facility, specifically allocated to address the immediate needs of a group of our compatriots.
For those displaced from their homeland, this contribution carries profound moral significance, reassuring them that they are not forgotten—even far from home. None of these achievements would be possible without our exceptional colleagues from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The Dutch Parliament, too, has consistently shown steadfast support for Armenia and its citizens on matters of importance, standing as a rare and principled voice of justice on the international stage.
We take pride in our people, our projects, and our innovations that have made a lasting impact well beyond our borders. A recent example is the opening of the world-renowned TUMO Centre in Amsterdam, offering Dutch teenagers a unique opportunity to develop skills in design and creative technologies. Founded in Yerevan in 2011, TUMO has become a symbol of how Armenia is redefining the way young people engage with creativity and technology.
Long live Armenia!
