Armenpress: Macron’s support for Armenia has been not only institutional but

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said during a state reception held as part of French President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Armenia that Macron’s role has been pivotal at Armenia’s current stage of development.

The prime minister noted that Armenia-France relations are at a high level and are expected to be formalised through the adoption of a strategic partnership document as a key outcome of Macron’s state visit.

“Today marks a very important and significant event for us. We are witnessing a situation where the president of a country that has been a traditional and loyal friend to ours – who is also my personal friend – is in Armenia. This event carries a dual significance,” Pashinyan said.

According to him, Armenia has transitioned from a survival agenda to a development agenda, shaping a new strategy based on the concept of the “real Armenia.”

The prime minister stressed that a key milestone in shaping this new reality and regional strategy was the quadrilateral meeting held in Prague on October 6, 2022, where, as he noted, Emmanuel Macron demonstrated exceptional determination and principled leadership.

“What I witnessed that day – such conviction, dedication, principle and determination – is something I have not encountered in any book,” Pashinyan said, adding that the approaches formed during that meeting have become one of the foundations of Armenia’s current reality.

In his assessment, these processes have contributed to shaping Armenia’s prospects for peace, security and development.

Pashinyan also emphasised that Macron’s support for Armenia has extended beyond institutional frameworks to a personal level, encompassing security, sovereignty and the strengthening of statehood.

“At a time when it seemed that Armenia had no hope or support, we felt and grasped President Macron’s hand,” he said, noting that this support has been expressed through concrete actions and decisions.

The prime minister added that during his tenure, he does not recall a case in which Macron’s response to issues concerning Armenia’s state interests was not prompt, specific and practical.

Pashinyan also noted that Armenia’s highest state award, the Order of Glory, conferred on the French president, is an _expression_ of appreciation for the pivotal service Macron has rendered to Armenia.

“Distinguished President of the Republic of Armenia, dear attendees, I propose a toast to the President of the French Republic, a statesman of the French Republic and the Republic of Armenia, a great friend, brother and close ally of the Republic of Armenia and the Armenian people – Emmanuel Macron,” Pashinyan said.