Armenia and the U.S. strengthen ties with a new agreement, marking enhanced cooperation in security, democracy, and justice, The Voice of America reports.

On January 14, Armenia's Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken signed a strategic partnership document in Washington, solidifying bilateral cooperation.

Blinken emphasized that the new commission established under the agreement would develop cooperation in critical sectors such as the economy, security, democracy, and justice. He added that the document is a significant step toward strengthening Armenia’s sovereignty.

Mirzoyan highlighted that Yerevan and Washington have reached a new partnership level despite challenging international conditions. He mentioned starting nuclear energy cooperation discussions and Armenia’s intention to join the global coalition against ISIS.

Journalist Mark Grigoryan viewed the agreement as a strategic step with long-term goals for regional and bilateral developments. He noted that it could amplify U.S. influence in a region where Armenia faces pressures from Baku, Ankara, and Moscow. According to Grigoryan, Russia often warns Yerevan against distancing itself, claiming it would worsen Armenia’s position.

Boris Dolgin, a researcher at Tartu University’s Center for Eastern Studies, remarked that the document, while not offering concrete guarantees, shows Armenia’s direction. He acknowledged Western support for this decision, despite opposition from Russia, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Turkey, as strengthening Yerevan's position.

Vadim Dubnov, a political commentator at Echo Kavkaza, noted Moscow’s growing support for Baku in the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict. He asserted that Yerevan is increasingly compelled to deepen ties with the West, viewing the document as a symbolic reflection of Armenia's shift.

Dubnov added that while relations with the West could progress without such a document, it highlights Armenia’s trajectory, much to Azerbaijan’s dissatisfaction, as it seeks to isolate Armenia from Western support.

Tensions between Armenia and Russia are rising over the development of Armenian-U.S. relations. Recently, Armenia's Foreign Ministry lodged a protest with the Russian ambassador over a broadcast on Vesti Nedeli. Grigoryan argued that Moscow's rhetoric alienates Yerevan, noting that Armenia is even considering banning some Russian programs.