Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan received a delegation led by the United Kingdom (UK) Minister of State for Defense, Vernon Coaker, the PM’s office informed Armenian News-NEWS.am.

The premier welcomed Coaker’s visit to Armenia, and stressed the country’s active dialogue and cooperation with the UK in recent times. Pashinyan noted that a broad agenda has formed in bilateral relations, covering various sectors and directions. The Armenian leader added that his government attaches importance to high-level mutual visits, which give new impetus to the consistent expansion of ties.

In turn, Vernon Coaker emphasized that raising the UK’s relations with Armenia to the level of strategic partnership will give new momentum to multi-sector ties and the implementation of joint programs. Also, the UK defense minister expressed satisfaction with the discussions already held with their Armenian colleagues, and noted that they are ready to continue close dialogue with the aim of expanding and developing cooperation.

The interlocutors highlighted the implementation of joint programs, including in military education and cybersecurity.

Pashinyan and Coaker touched upon issues of regional significance, too. In particular, Vernon Coaker underlined the UK’s support for strengthening the peace already established between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and expressed a conviction that it will contribute to stability and cooperation in the region.

Views were exchanged also on the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) project, and the Crossroads of Peace project of Armenia. In this connection, PM Pashinyan noted that the Armenian government is interested in the unblocking of regional communication routes within the framework of the principles set out in the declaration signed in Washington on August 8, and in attracting international investment for that purpose.