French-backed initiatives in Syunik reviewed![]() July 17, 2026 - 16:29 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan visited the French Embassy in Armenia on the occasion of France's National Day, Bastille Day, where he congratulated Ambassador Olivier Decottignies and, through him, extended his best wishes to President Emmanuel Macron and the people of France. During the meeting, the two sides discussed projects being implemented by France in Armenia's Syunik Province, including initiatives carried out at both the central and local government levels. Emphasizing the importance of the special relationship between Armenia and France, Khachaturyan also highlighted the value of high-level bilateral visits. He referred to President Emmanuel Macron's state visit to Armenia in May this year, saying it had given fresh momentum and substance to the bilateral agenda. The discussions also underscored the importance of expanding cooperation in the defense industry, high technology and artificial intelligence. Khachaturyan additionally addressed progress in the Armenia–European Union strategic partnership, placing particular emphasis on France's role in advancing that agenda. At the conclusion of the meeting, Ambassador Olivier Decottignies thanked the Armenian president for his visit, congratulations and continued support for the development of Armenian-French relations. Grigoryan added that the situation around the world and particularly in the region is very difficult. The Armenian Defense Ministry has denied Azerbaijan's accusations of violating the ceasefire. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan took to social media to thank his Lithuanian counterpart for the contribution. President of the Armenian parliament Alen Simonyan met with the Speaker of the Azerbaijani Milli Majlis Sahiba Gafarova. Partner news |