- Minister for Europe MP announces upgrade of
the UK-Armenia relationship to a Strategic Partnership during
visit to Yerevan
- discussions focused on regional developments,
Armenia-Azerbaijan peace process, defence and economic
cooperation
- visit underscores UK commitment to supporting Armenia's
sovereignty and democratic reforms
On 26 August 2025, Minister visited Armenia as part of
his broader trip to the South Caucasus. The visit demonstrated
the United Kingdom's commitment to strengthening ties with
Armenia as it continues to diversify its international
partnerships.
During his programme, Minister Doughty met with Prime Minister
Nikol Pashinyan to reaffirm commitment to developing our
bilateral relationship, which we agreed to upgrade to a Strategic
Partnership. They also discussed recent progress relating
to the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace process and efforts to strengthen
democratic reforms.
The Minister co-chaired the 2nd UK-Armenia Strategic Dialogue
with Deputy Foreign Minister Vahan Kostanyan at the Ministry of
Foreign Affairs. During this meeting both sides agreed to upgrade
their relationship to a Strategic Partnership, enabling
opportunities to work more closely on key strategic
priorities. This includes defence cooperation with plans
for resident defence attachés to be posted in the respective
capitals.
Minister Doughty's meeting with Armen Grigoryan, Secretary of the
Security Council, reinforced the UK's support for regional
peace-building processes.
Minister Doughty paid his respects at the Tsitsernakaberd
Armenian Genocide Memorial.
In a productive roundtable with British and Armenian business
leaders, the Minister explored how the UK can better support
Armenian businesses to access the UK markets.
The Minister welcomed Armenia's preparations to host the European
Political Community Summit and Biodiversity COP17 next year and
offered UK assistance to support the delivery of both. The visit
expressed the UK's support for positive momentum in the peace
process and for Armenia's policy of reform and economic
diversification. Agreeing to upgrade the bilateral relationship
to a Strategic Partnership demonstrates the UK's continued
commitment to support Armenia's sovereignty, territorial
integrity and democratic development.
Minister Doughty's opening speech during the 2nd UK-Armenia
Strategic Dialogue:
Deputy Minister Kostanyan, colleagues and friends,
Thank you for the warm welcome.
It's a real honour to be part of this, our second Strategic
Dialogue — a testament to the growing partnership between our
countries.
Thank you, Deputy Foreign Minister Kostanyan, for hosting us.
It's a pleasure to be in this vibrant and welcoming city.
You might be interested to know there's a special connection
between Armenia and my home country of Wales.
Across our 4 traditional regions, you'll find 4 Armenian
monuments – each a symbol of friendship and solidarity.
From a Victorian stained glass window in a medieval church to a
plaque in a North Welsh village, a statue in the cloister garden
of our most sacred cathedral, and a carved cross stone in a peace
and reconciliation centre – each tells a story of shared values
and mutual respect.
My own connection to this region goes back some years. Early in
my career, I worked on parliamentary and diplomatic engagement
across the Caucasus. That experience gave me deep respect for the
resilience and ambition of the people here—and it's a privilege
to return now as a minister.
I'm also glad to be with you at such a pivotal time, following
the courageous and vital steps taken at the peace summit in
Washington towards a more stable and prosperous future.
The UK stands ready to support you on that path.
We also recognise the challenges Armenia faces and remain
committed to supporting your sovereignty, democratic institutions
and reforms.
I know you are keen to diversify your foreign, defence and
commercial partnerships. And the UK is ready and eager to work
with you to strengthen collaboration between our countries on all
these fronts, to grow our economies and build opportunities for
our people.
And that spirit of partnership is just as vital on the
international stage.
Hosting the European Political Community Summit and COP17 next
year will place Armenia at the heart of vital discussions on
climate, democracy and European cooperation.
These are hugely significant moments for the region and the
world, and the UK looks forward to working closely with you to
make them a success.
So, we have lots to discuss today – and I am very much looking
forward to listening, learning, and planning our next steps
together.
Thank you.
