The United States will help Armenia improve the economic situation in the country and integrate in the South Caucasus energy system, Assistant Administrator of USAID for Europe and Eurasia Thomas O. Melia said in Washington on Friday, June 10.

Addressing the Congress, Melia unveiled the U.S. aid priorities for the South Caucasus countries.

“Our assistance to Armenia will help reduce the country's economic dependence on Russia,” the Voice of America cited Melia as saying.

“Also, it will enable Armenia to integrate into energy systems, with a part of the aid aimed at enhancing local government inside the country.”

According to the White House’s draft budget proposal, the U.S. aid to Armenia will grow by 22% to amount to $22 million. In addition, the United States will allocate more than $3 million for developing Armenia’s military and legal systems.

Many American lawmakers, however, still hope to increase the U.S. aid to Armenia.