On May 5, during the opening speech at the Yerevan Dialogue 2026, Ararat Mirzoyan, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, reflected on global developments, stating that while the uncertainty described a year earlier has partially lifted, it has revealed a world marked by multiple and overlapping crises.
Mirzoyan described a series of “storms” shaping the current international environment. He emphasized that geopolitical order is being undermined, with “the rule of power” increasingly replacing the rule of law, while multilateral institutions struggle to remain effective. He also warned about the return of nuclear rhetoric to mainstream discourse. Addressing technological challenges, Mirzoyan highlighted that artificial intelligence has evolved into a tool capable of large-scale disinformation and manipulation, “creating false realities and targeting democratic societies with surgical precision.”
He further pointed to economic instability, noting that global markets have become increasingly volatile, with disrupted supply chains, fluctuating energy prices, and the widespread use of sanctions as geopolitical tools. Environmental pressures were also underscored, with Mirzoyan stressing that climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource overuse are intensifying global instability. He emphasized that these crises are interconnected, reinforcing one another and making them more difficult to manage.
Turning to Armenia’s experience, Mirzoyan stated that the country has faced severe challenges in recent years, which could have pushed many states toward collapse. He outlined three possible responses for nations in times of crisis: isolation, which leaves countries unprepared; submission, which results in loss of agency; and a pragmatic, forward-looking strategy that allows states to navigate uncertainty while maintaining sovereignty. According to Mirzoyan, Armenia has experienced all three approaches and has ultimately chosen a path based on independent decision-making and long-term strategic planning. “Not to follow what others have prescribed for us, but to take the responsibility to make our sovereign decisions,” Mirzoyan stated, linking this shift to the concept of the “Real Armenia.”
Mirzoyan highlighted recent diplomatic developments, referring to the Washington Peace Summit as a turning point. He noted that the joint declaration signed by the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan, with the participation of the US President, alongside the initialing of the peace agreement, marked a significant step toward recognizing territorial integrity and opening a new phase of regional stability. He stressed, however, that “peace must never be treated as a one-time achievement,” emphasizing the need for continuous effort, including addressing humanitarian issues and fostering reconciliation.
He also underscored the importance of economic interdependence as a foundation for lasting peace, pointing to regional infrastructure initiatives aimed at connecting trade, energy, and digital networks. These efforts, he noted, are central to Armenia’s “Crossroads of Peace” initiative and projects such as TRIPP, which aim to create shared interests among regional actors.
Discussing relations with neighboring countries, Mirzoyan emphasized Armenia’s commitment to normalizing ties with Türkiye, strengthening its strategic partnership with Georgia, and maintaining close cooperation with Iran. He added that Armenia is pursuing a diversified foreign policy, building partnerships with countries including the United States, France, Kazakhstan, China, and European partners, based on balance rather than dependence.
Mirzoyan highlighted the growing importance of Armenia’s relationship with the European Union, noting that the Strategic Agenda adopted in December 2025 provides a framework for cooperation in political, security, and economic spheres. He also referred to the launch of visa liberalization dialogue and recent high-level meetings in Yerevan, including the European Political Community summit and the first Armenia–EU summit.
Concluding his remarks, Mirzoyan stated that while global uncertainties will persist, countries retain the ability to shape their future through strategic choices. “Storms may never be fully tamed,” he stated, adding that with clear vision and decisive action, nations can navigate challenges and secure sovereign and stable development.
https://caucasuswatch.de/en/news/mirzoyan-warns-of-global-storms-while-outlining-armenias-sovereign-shift-and-post-war-peace-strategy-with-azerbaijan.html