On March 25, California Senate Bill 302 authored by State Senator Anthony J. Portantino, to reestablish California-Armenia Trade Office passed the State Senate Business and Professions Committee. The bill received bi-partisan support and garnered a unanimous vote.

Consul General of Armenia in Los Angeles flew to Sacramento to offer testimony in favor of the proposal at the Committee hearing. He presented argumentation highlighting the importance of establishing the trade office. Consul General Armen Baibourtian mentioned that in present circumstances a tremendous entrepreneurial potential was accumulated, the realization of which will be boosted by the new trade office in Yerevan.

"One of my top priorities as Consul General is to increase economic opportunities between Armenia and California. I was very pleased to offer testimony in support of this important proposal. There is tremendous excitement in Yerevan, Glendale and Sacramento about the burgeoning beneficial relationship on the horizon and feel we are capturing that excitement. Our hope it will lead to mutual benefit",- concluded Consul General Baibourtian. He also expressed his profound appreciation to Senator Portantino for introducing this bill of paramount importance.

"Armenia is an important trade partner with California with strong and long-standing relationships. SB 302 will formalize trade and economic ties. As the representative of the largest Armenian community in a legislative district in the country, I am very honored and glad that this bill is moving forward in the Senate. California is embracing the Armenian Community and all it has to offer our state and it’s exciting to be part of that excitement",- commented Senator Portantino.

Information. Former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger terminated the California-Armenia International Trade Office in 2007.