During his toast at the state dinner organized within the framework of the state visit of French President Emmanuel Macron, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan emphasized that Macron’s role in the current phase of Armenia’s development has been a turning point, Armenpress reports.

The Armenian prime minister noted that relations between Armenia and France are at a high level, which is planned to be further strengthened by the adoption of a strategic partnership document as an important outcome of Macron’s state visit. “Today, a very important and great event is taking place for us, and we have a situation when the president of a country that is a traditional and loyal friend of our country, as well as my personal friend, is in Armenia.

This event has a double significance,” Pashinyan said. According to him, Armenia has currently transitioned from a survival agenda to a development agenda, forming a new strategy based on the ideology of a “real Armenia.” The premier emphasized that the key milestone in the formation of this new reality and regional strategy was the quadrilateral meeting held in Prague on October 6, 2022, where, according to him, Emmanuel Macron acted with exceptional determination and principle.

“What I saw that day—such conviction, dedication, principle, and determination—I have not read in any book,” Pashinyan noted, adding that the approaches formed during that meeting have become one of the foundations of Armenia’s current reality. As per Pashinyan, these processes have contributed to the formation of Armenia’s peace, security, and development prospects.

Also, the prime minister emphasized that Macron’s support for Armenia has been not only institutional, but also personal, encompassing security, sovereignty, and strengthening of statehood. “When it seemed that Armenia had no hope and support, we felt and touched the hand of President Macron,” he said, noting that this support was expressed in concrete steps and decisions.

Pashinyan added that during his tenure, he does not remember a case when Macron’s response to issues related to Armenia’s state interests was not quick, concrete, and practical. The Armenian premier noted also that the highest award bestowed by Armenia on the French president is actually an expression of appreciation for the landmark service that Macron has rendered to Armenia.

“Honorable President of the Republic of Armenia, distinguished guests, I propose that we raise a glass to the President of the French Republic, a statesman of the Republic of France and the Republic of Armenia, a great friend, brother, and relative of the Republic of Armenia and the Armenian people, Emmanuel Macron,” the prime minister of Armenia concluded.