Pashinyan to Macron: Highest level of ties reflected not only in state institu

The official welcoming ceremony for Emmanuel Macron, who arrived in Armenia on a state visit, took place in Yerevan. The national anthems of Armenia and France were played, after which the leaders introduced members of their delegations.

According to a readout by the Prime Minister’s Office, an expanded meeting between Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Macron was held afterward.

Welcoming the French president and his delegation, Pashinyan said the state visit had been warmly received by the public, noting that over the past two days Macron had brought “great happiness” to many citizens of Armenia and visiting guests.

“They had the opportunity to communicate with you, take photos, express their love for you and, of course, feel your love for them. I think this is truly a new page, not only in terms of Armenia–France relations, but also in the protocol logic of state visits,” Pashinyan said, adding that the events in Yerevan would long remain in people’s memory.

According to the prime minister, the emotional atmosphere surrounding the visit reflects the level of relations between the two countries.

“You have proven that the highest level is expressed not only at the level of state institutions, but also at the level of our peoples,” he said, adding that Armenian citizens feel France’s support, friendship, and goodwill.

Pashinyan expressed gratitude to Macron, describing the visit as long-awaited and significant, and said it opens “a new page in diplomatic experience.”

Macron, in turn, thanked Armenia for the warm welcome, noting the importance of the visit.

“We are deeply impressed by the warm popular reception that France has received, as well as by the success that this visit represents for Armenia,” he said, referring also to the European Political Community Summit in Yerevan 2026 and the first Armenia–European Union summit.

Macron reiterated France’s support for Armenia’s ongoing efforts and stressed the importance of maintaining steady progress.

He noted that several agreements are expected to be signed during the visit within the framework of a developing strategic partnership, particularly in defense and security, as well as in economic cooperation and investment.

The French president also highlighted plans to expand cooperation in areas ranging from artificial intelligence to public policy implementation.

According to Macron, the visit reflects both the depth of bilateral relations and the strong ties between the two nations.

“Armenia is loved in France,” he said, pointing to shared human connections visible in cities such as Yerevan, Lyon, and Marseille, adding that the two countries have “interconnected destinies.”