Armenia has presented the "Crossroads of Peace" initiative, which, in many ways, coincides with China's "Belt and Road" initiative, promoting the development of ties and regional cooperation. How do you envision the synergy between these two initiatives?

In an interview with China Central Television, Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan answered the question:

"It is obvious that the whole world is now trying to discover new logistical rules to strengthen ties between countries, and the 'One Belt, One Road' initiative, as well as Armenia's 'Crossroads of Peace' initiative, are part of that common search aimed at creating new or better ties. As you mentioned, the "Crossroads of Peace" initiative of the Republic of Armenia fully coincides with the "One Belt, One Road" vision. The goal is to establish stronger connections between Europe and East Asia, particularly between Paris and Beijing. We can see the free and smooth movement of goods and people from Paris to Beijing, as well as from France to the South Caucasus, Armenia, and then to Central Asia, for example, through Kazakhstan, to China.

And suppose this improved link is implemented and works smoothly, whether it is called the "Crossroads of Peace" or the "One Belt, One Road" initiative. In that case, it will benefit all countries and all peoples, helping governments achieve their primary goal of ensuring the well-being and happiness of their citizens. This fall, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit will be held in Tianjin, China. And as a dialogue partner of the SCO, Armenia sees its total trade with China increasing year by year."

How the SCO's focus on green development and the digital economy can bring new opportunities to both countries.

"Armenia is a dialogue partner of the SCO, and the fundamental principles of the organization are very important for Armenia. Let's recall some of them: territorial integrity, the inviolability of borders, and the non-use of force.

This is precisely what Armenia is building its foreign policy on today. These principles are fundamental to us. Additionally, as a complement, we observe that several other agendas are being promoted within the organization's framework, as you mentioned some of them: artificial intelligence, digital economy, green transition, and climate issues.

These topics are also essential for us. Let's remember just one fact: it's a sufficient indicator. One of the main aspects of trade between Armenia and China, which is particularly significant, is the exchange of green technologies.

So, again, as a complement, when we discuss climate issues and biodiversity more broadly, it becomes clear that climate issues are also significant for Armenia. Next year, we will host the COP17 conference on biodiversity, and in preparation for this important event, we also expect cooperation with China in this context. I say this to demonstrate the Republic of Armenia's interest in the activities of this organization and the development of our collaboration.

Moreover, we have decided to expand and increase our participation in this organization. By the way, this was also one of the topics discussed and negotiated between the Armenian and Chinese delegations. We have clearly expressed our position, namely, our desire to increase our role in this organization. And we hope that the member states will welcome these aspirations of ours," Mirzoyan said.