On July 13, in New York, Deputy Foreign Minister Robert Abisoghomonyan participated and delivered remarks at the "Trade over Aid" Forum.

In his remarks, Deputy Foreign Minister Robert Abisoghomonyan emphasized that Armenia joined the “Trade over Aid” initiative and is willing to actively contribute to its further activities. Armenia views this initiative as an innovative look at international development cooperation that complements the traditional development mechanisms, placing greater emphasis on strengthening national capacities, attracting investment, economic growth, as well as advancing national responsibility and resilience, which is fully in line with the development strategy of Armenia. 

The Deputy Foreign Minister also underscored the importance of the active engagement of the UNDP in the initiative, noting that its extensive expertise and sectoral professional capacities can significantly contribute to governance and institutional reforms, human capital development, enhancing connectivity and ensuring long-term inclusive economic growth. 

Robert Abisoghomonyan presented the policy of economic diversification of Armenia, noting that it entails expanding access to new markets and transport routes, as well as reducing structural dependence on a limited number of sectors. At the same time, the Deputy Foreign Minister emphasized that Armenia is consistently moving toward a knowledge and manufacturing-driven economy, fostering innovation, supporting local competitive SMEs and investing in human capital development. The Deputy Minister noted that the successful implementation of this strategic programme requires a peaceful and stable regional environment, predictable international supply chains, diversified transport routes and enhanced trade facilitation and digital connectivity. 

Touching upon the strategic economic cooperation between Armenia and the USA, the Deputy Foreign Minister presented the TRIPP regional connectivity project as an initiative aimed at creating new opportunities for trade, investment and economic cooperation, as well as further consolidating lasting peace and stability in the South Caucasus. The core principles of the project were presented, which are enshrined in the Framework Agreement on Strategic Cooperation Concerning the TRIPP, signed by Armenia and the United States. 

Robert Abisoghomonyan also touched upon the “Firebird AI” data center currently under construction in Armenia, highlighting that it serves as a key example of the strategic cooperation  between Armenia and the USA in the field of advanced technologies. It was noted that the investment project, implemented with the participation of “NVIDIA”, “Dell Technologies” and other leading US corporations, will significantly contribute to the development of AI and digital infrastructure, positioning Armenia as a regional technological hub. 

The Deputy Foreign Minister also outlined new prospects for cooperation between Armenia and the US in the field of civil nuclear energy, highlighting the conclusion of negotiations of the “123 Agreement” for Peaceful Nuclear Cooperation, as well as signing the Framework for Securing of Supply in the Mining and Processing of Critical Minerals and Rare Earths. 

In his remarks, Deputy Foreign Minister Robert Abisoghomonyan touched upon the recent developments aimed at deepening the trade integration of Armenia with the EU. 

Note: The “Trade over Aid” initiative of the USA Administration proposes a new economic development model that brings together UN Member States, private sector entities and UN agencies with the goal of creating a business-enabling environment and promoting economic growth based on free-market principles. The initiative was officially launched on April 27, 2026.