Visit to Armenia by Congressional Delegation led by Senator Gary Peters

September 23, 2022 The U.S. Embassy in Armenia welcomes a U.S. Congressional Delegation led by Senator Gary Peters (D-MI).  During his visit on September 22-25, Senator Peters will meet with Prime Minister Pashinyan, Speaker of the National Assembly Alen Simonyan, Deputy Foreign Minister Paruyr Hovhannisyan and other stakeholders to discuss U.S.-Armenian relations and the impact …

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Statement by Secretary Antony J. Blinken

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release  STATEMENT BY SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN September 19, 2023 Call for End of Hostilities in Nagorno-Karabakh The United States is deeply concerned by Azerbaijan’s military actions in Nagorno-Karabakh and calls on Azerbaijan to cease these actions immediately.  These actions are worsening an already dire …

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Eagle Partner Exercise Builds Upon Longstanding U.S.-Armenian Security Cooperation

Yerevan, ARMENIA – The U.S. Embassy in Armenia welcomes to Yerevan Major General Gregory Anderson, Commanding General, 10th Mountain Division, and Brigadier General Patrick Ellis, U.S. Army Europe and Africa Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations. Major General Anderson and Brigadier General Ellis will join Ambassador Kvien to observe the Eagle Partner exercise at the …

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The worldwide limit for the 2023 Diversity Visa Program has been reached

The Diversity Visa (DV) program awards up to 55,000 immigrant visas per year and allows those from countries with low immigration rates to the United States, to enter for a chance to apply for a U.S immigrant visa. Since its launch in 1990, the program has continued the ongoing policy priority to promote and maintain …

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Head of the Office of Sanctions Coordination, Ambassador James O’Brien, Visits Armenia

Ambassador James O’Brien, Head of the Office of Sanctions Coordination at the U.S. State Department, and Kumar Iyer, Director General, Economics, Science and Technology at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, visited Armenia June 29-30 to express appreciation for Armenia’s commitment to preventing sanctions circumvention.  Their visit follows on the visit of the EU …

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Ambassador Kristina Kvien’s speech on U.S. Independence Day 2023

Good Evening!  Thanks to Hasmik of Naghash Ensemble for the beautiful rendition of our national anthems, and thank you to the Kansas Army National Guard Infantry Quintet and Hard Rock Cafés “Ness Band” for the wonderful music tonight.  Also a big thanks to our Marine Detachment for the beautiful presentation of the colors. Deputy Prime …

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Visit of Senior Advisor Justin Friedman to Armenia

Yerevan, Armenia – June 26, 2023 – U.S. Embassy Yerevan welcomes U.S. Department of State Senior Advisor Justin Friedman to Armenia.  Friedman is the Senior Advisor in the Department of State’s Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation.  During his June 26-27 visit, Senior Advisor Friedman will meet with senior Armenian government officials, as well as subject matter …

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Governor of Kansas Laura Kelly and Brigadier General Michael Venerdi Visit Armenia

Yerevan, Armenia – June 21, 2023 – U.S. Embassy Yerevan welcomes Governor of Kansas Laura Kelly to Armenia June 22-23, 2023.  The Governor’s visit will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Kansas-Armenia State Partnership, and strengthen ties between the State of Kansas and Armenia.   Governor Kelly is joined by U.S. Brigadier General Michael Venerdi …

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Ambassador Kvien’s Remarks at Forum for Democracy May 31, 2023, 10:00 Transcript

Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. President, Mr. Prime Minister. I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to Freedom House and the Union of Informed Citizens for organizing this second annual Forum for Democracy.   I also want to commend the people of Armenia for their unwavering commitment to democratic reform despite grave security challenges.   This commitment …

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U.S. Embassy to Host Food Diplomacy Program Featuring Celebrity Chef Amanda Freitag

May 30, 2023 – American celebrity chef, star of the TV show “Chopped” and cookbook author Amanda Freitag will visit Armenia June 1-6, 2023 for a culinary diplomacy program focused on food sustainability and culinary entrepreneurship, hosted by the U.S. Embassy in collaboration with The Culinary Diplomacy Project . Born and raised in New Jersey, Chef Freitag has worked in a diverse …

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U.S. Embassy Announces Armenian Tour of Hip Hop Band Black Alley

U.S. band Black Alley will tour Armenia June 1-6, 2023 as part of the U.S. State Department’s American Music Abroad (AMA) program.  The AMA touring program represents a diverse new generation of U.S. musical ambassadors who reach beyond concert halls to interact with musicians and citizens around the global. Bands are selected for tours through a competitive audition process. Founded …

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Visa Fee Increases Effective May 30, 2023

The U.S. Department of State has increased certain nonimmigrant visa (NIV) application processing fees globally.  These fee increases are effective as of May 30, 2023. The application fee for visitor visas for business or tourism (B1/B2s) and other non-petition based NIVs, such as student and exchange visitor visas, has increased from $160 to $185.  The …

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Armenia-Azerbaijan Peace Negotiations

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE MAY 4, 2023 This week I hosted Azerbaijan Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov and Armenia Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan for bilateral peace negotiations at the George P. Schultz National Foreign Affairs Training Center. After an intensive and constructive series of bilateral and trilateral discussions, the parties made significant …

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Remarks as Prepared by Ambassador Kvien at World Press Freedom Day Reception May 4, 2023

Dear Guests, Good evening!  It’s a pleasure to host this gathering to recognize World Press Freedom Day.  A free, diverse, and independent press is a fundamental pillar of any successful democracy.   A free press plays a role that is much deeper than just providing information, although that in itself is important.  A free press holds …

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U.S. Ambassador Hosts World Press Freedom Day Event, Announces $17.3 Million Investments in Armenia’s Media Sector

On May 4, 2023, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Kristina Kvien hosted a reception in honor of World Press Freedom Day for Armenian media representatives and other stakeholders.  In her remarks, Ambassador Kvien underscored the important role a free press plays in democratic societies to inform the public and hold governments and those in power accountable. …

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The Armenian Rescue Service Visits the Kansas Civil Support Team

On 10-14 April 2023, under the auspices of the Defense Threat Reduction Agency’s Counter Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) Security Cooperation Engagement Program, 10 specialists of the Chemical, Biological and Radiological (CBR) Situations Monitoring Unit of the Rescue Service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MoIA) visited the Kansas Civil Support Team (CST) in the …

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Ambassador Kvien’s Remarks at American Chamber of Commerce in Armenia General Meeting

Mr. Deputy Prime Minister, Government Officials, Mr. AmCham President, members of the AmCham Board of Directors, Distinguished Guests, I am delighted to be here today. The Embassy has no better partner in Armenia for promoting trade and economic growth than the Chamber, and I want to thank AmCham for hosting this event.  I have only …

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The Medical Management of CBRN Casualties Training

The Medical Management of CBRN Casualties Training within the Counter WMD Security Cooperation Engagement Program On 2-10 March 2023, the experts of the Defense Threat Reduction Agency’s Counter Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) Security Cooperation Engagement Program conducted a 6-day Medical Management of Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Casualties training at the Lusakert Training …

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Senior Advisor for Caucasus Negotiations Louis Bono Travels to Yerevan

The U.S. Embassy in Armenia welcomes Senior Advisor for Caucasus Negotiations Louis Bono to Yerevan.  During his visit on March 7, SACN Bono will meet with Armenian government officials and others to discuss U.S. support for negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan to reach a comprehensive peace agreement, including a long-term political settlement to the Nagorno-Karabakh …

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Ambassador Kvien presents her credentials

Today Ambassador Kristina Kvien officially presented her credentials as U.S. Ambassador to Armenia to President Vahagn Khachaturyan. “It’s the honor of a lifetime to be U.S. Ambassador to Armenia. The United States deeply values our partnership with Armenia, which is based on our shared democratic values.  I look forward to working closely with the Armenian …

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Introduction of New Senior Advisor for Caucasus Negotiations

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE FEBRUARY 1, 2023 I am appointing Louis L. Bono, a member of the Senior Foreign Service, as Senior Advisor for Caucasus Negotiations. In this capacity, Mr. Bono will work with regional leaders to advance the peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan and to address Russia’s ongoing occupation …

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The U.S. Embassy in Armenia welcomes Ambassador Philip Reeker to Yerevan

The U.S. Embassy in Armenia welcomes Ambassador Philip Reeker, Senior Advisor for Caucasus Negotiations, to Yerevan.  During his visit on December 1-4, Ambassador Reeker will meet with government officials, members of civil society, and others to discuss U.S. support for direct talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan to reach a lasting peace.

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The U.S. Embassy in Armenia welcomes to Yerevan Major General Daniel Lasica

The U.S. Embassy in Armenia welcomes to Yerevan Major General Daniel Lasica, Director for Strategy, Plans and Policy, United States European Command. During his visit on November 16-17, Major General Lasica will take part in wreath laying ceremonies at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and at the Armenian Genocide Memorial.  He will meet with …

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U.S. Congressional Delegation Led by House Democracy Partnership Commission Chairman David Price Visits Armenia

The U.S. Embassy in Armenia welcomes to Yerevan a U.S. House Democracy Partnership (HDP) Congressional Delegation led by Chairman David Price. During their visit on October 17-18, the delegation will take part in a wreath laying ceremony at the Armenian Genocide Memorial, followed by meetings with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and President of the National …

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Speaker Pelosi Remarks at Address on U.S. Commitment to Armenia’s Security and Democracy

SEPTEMBER 18, 2022 PRESS RELEASE  Yerevan, Armenia – Speaker Nancy Pelosi delivered an address at the Cafesjian Center for the Arts to reaffirm America’s strong support for the people of Armena and for their security and democracy.  Below are the Speaker’s remarks: Speaker Pelosi.  Thank you very much, Madam Ambassador.  Thank you for your kind …

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Speaker Pelosi Remarks at Congressional Delegation Press Conference with Armenian Speaker Alen Simonyan

SEPTEMBER 18, 2022 PRESS RELEASE Yerevan, Armenia – Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the Congressional delegation to Armenia held a press conference with Speaker Alen Simonyan of the Armenian National Assembly.  Below is the full transcript: Speaker Pelosi.  Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker.  Thank you for hosting our Congressional delegation and for your commitment to …

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Secretary Blinken’s Trilateral Meeting with Azerbaijan and Armenia

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release READOUT September 15, 2022 Secretary Blinken’s Call with Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan The below is attributable to Spokesperson Ned Price: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken hosted Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan and Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov for the first direct talks since …

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Visit to Armenia by Congressional Delegation Led by Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi

Yerevan, Armenia – The U.S. Embassy in Armenia will welcome a U.S. Congressional Delegation led by Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi to Yerevan later today. Speaker Pelosi will engage on the strong partnership between the United States and Armenia, rooted in shared democratic values and long-standing ties between our peoples. She …

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Secretary Blinken’s Call with Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release READOUT September 15, 2022 Secretary Blinken’s Call with Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan The following is attributable to Spokesperson Ned Price: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.  Secretary Blinken conveyed our condolences for the loss of life …

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Secretary Blinken’s Call with Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan

Office of the Spokesperson The below is attributable to Spokesperson Ned Price: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke overnight with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to convey our deep concern over the military actions along the Armenia-Azerbaijan border, including reports of shelling in Armenia. The Secretary stressed the need for disengagement of military forces …

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Statement by Secretary Antony J. Blinken

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release  STATEMENT BY SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN September 12, 2022 Calling for the Immediate Cessation of Hostilities between Armenia and Azerbaijan The United States is deeply concerned about reports of attacks along the Armenia-Azerbaijan border, including reported strikes against settlements and civilian infrastructure inside Armenia.  …

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Message for US Citizens

Location: Yerevan Event: According to local authorities, emergency services are currently investigating bomb threats at Grigor Lusavorich Church, all metro stations, the Zoo, the National Assembly, and all big malls and shopping centers.  Metro service has been suspended. Actions to Take: Avoid the area Monitor local media for updates Avoid crowds Notify friends and family of your …

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Secretary Blinken’s Call with Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan

The following is attributable to Spokesperson Ned Price: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.  Secretary Blinken assured Prime Minister Pashinyan that the United States is watching the situation in and around Nagorno-Karabakh closely.  He urged direct dialogue between Armenia and Azerbaijan to resolve issues related to, or resulting from, …

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De-Escalation In and Around Nagorno-Karabakh

PRESS STATEMENT NED PRICE, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON AUGUST 3, 2022 The United States is deeply concerned by and closely following reports of intensive fighting around Nagorno-Karabakh, including casualties and the loss of life. We urge immediate steps to reduce tensions and avoid further escalation. The recent increase in tensions underscores the need for a negotiated, comprehensive, and …

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The United States of America Celebrates Independence Day

Yerevan, Armenia – On June 30, 2022, the U.S. Embassy celebrated the 246th anniversary of the independence of the United States of America with an evening music, American food, and fireworks.  At the event, U.S. Ambassador Lynne Tracy reaffirmed U.S. support for democratic development in Armenia. “The stories of our partnership encompass support for democratic institutions, …

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Ambassador Tracy’s July 4 Remarks

Ambassador Tracy’s July 4 Remarks U.S. Embassy Compound Thursday, June 30, 2022 Deputy Prime Minister Matevosyan, honorable guests, friends, fellow Americans. I am so happy to welcome you all to our July 4th Celebration.  This is first time in three years that we have been able to gather in person! I want to express appreciation …

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The U.S. Embassy to Armenia welcomes Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Karen Donfried to Yerevan

YEREVAN – The U.S. Embassy to Armenia welcomes Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Karen Donfried to Yerevan. During her visit on June 18, Assistant Secretary Donfried will meet with government officials, including Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. Assistant Secretary Donfried will discuss U.S. support for the diplomatic efforts between Armenia and Azerbaijan …

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Assistant Secretary Donfried’s Travel to Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release  MEDIA NOTE June 10, 2022 Assistant Secretary Donfried’s Travel to Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Dr. Karen Donfried will travel to Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia June 14 to 19 to emphasize the U.S. commitment to …

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Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Kara McDonald Visit to Armenia

Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, Kara C. McDonald, will travel to Armenia June 8-9 for meetings with government officials, and democracy, free speech, and human rights advocatess.  The United States is committed to working with Armenia to strengthen our bilateral partnership based on shared democratic values, including respect …

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Secretary Blinken’s Call with Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release READOUT May 24, 2022 Secretary Blinken’s Call with Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan The following is attributable to Spokesperson Ned Price: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.  The Secretary and the Prime Minister discussed the positive momentum …

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Kansas National Guard Leadership visits Armenia

Yerevan, Armenia – The U.S. Embassy to Armenia is pleased to welcome Major General David Weishaar on his first visit to Yerevan since he was appointed The Adjutant General (TAG) of the State of Kansas. Major General Weishaar, along with other leaders from the Kansas National Guard, will meet with senior officials from the Ministry …

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Ambassador Tracy’s Remarks at First Armenian Forum for Democracy

First of all, let me just say how very pleased I am to be here today with friends, colleagues, and partners.  I want to congratulate Freedom House on holding this first Armenian Forum for Democracy.  I think it really demonstrates the level of engagement that we are able to have in Armenia and the place …

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Donation of Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Threats Response Equipment to the RA by the U.S. Defense Threat Reduction Agency

In the frame of a long-lasting partnership established between the Governments of Armenia and the United States, the U.S. Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA), within the Counter Weapons of Mass Destruction Security Cooperation Engagement Program, has donated Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) response equipment, worth over 1 million USD, to the Ministry of Emergency …

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Kansas National Guard Leadership visits Armenia

Yerevan, Armenia – The U.S. Embassy to Armenia is pleased to welcome Major General David Weishaar on his first visit to Yerevan since he was appointed The Adjutant General (TAG) of the State of Kansas. Major General Weishaar, along with other leaders from the Kansas National Guard, will meet with senior officials from the Ministry …

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Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan at a Signing Ceremony for a Memorandum of Understanding

REMARKS ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE BENJAMIN FRANKLIN ROOM WASHINGTON, D.C. MAY 2, 2022 SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Good afternoon, everyone.  It is a great pleasure to welcome the foreign minister from Armenia here to the State Department, to the United States.  Ararat, it’s very good to be with you today, to be with your entire …

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The United States of America and the Republic of Armenia Sign a Memorandum of Understanding Concerning Strategic Civil Nuclear Cooperation

U.S. Department of State OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON MAY 2, 2022 Today, the United States and Armenia signed a Memorandum of Understanding Concerning Strategic Civil Nuclear Cooperation (NCMOU), enabling us to deepen our strategic cooperation following on the gains made in connection with the U.S.-Armenia Strategic Dialogue. This MOU improves our cooperation on energy security …

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Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Armenian Foreign Minister Mirzoyan

U.S. Department of State OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON MAY 2, 2022 The following is attributable to Spokesperson Ned Price: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met today with Armenian Minister of Foreign Affairs Ararat Mirzoyan in Washington, D.C. to launch the U.S.-Armenia Strategic Dialogue.  The Secretary committed to further strengthening bilateral relations in line with …

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Statement by President Joe Biden on Armenian Remembrance Day

APRIL 24, 2022 On April 24, 1915, Ottoman authorities arrested Armenian intellectuals and community leaders in Constantinople. Thus began the Armenian genocide—one of the worst mass atrocities of the 20th century. Today, we remember the one and a half million Armenians who were deported, massacred, or marched to their deaths in a campaign of extermination, …

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American Corners in Armenia Celebrate the 7th Reading Marathon

The five American Corners in Armenia – in Yerevan, Gyumri, Vanadzor, Charentsavan, and Kapan – came together April 8 to mark the National Library Week with a reading marathon of Peter Balakyan’s award winning memoir “Black Dog of Fate.” Dozens of community leaders, literary figures, library patrons, and students joined the U.S. Ambassador to Armenia …

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Secretary Blinken’s Call with Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan

READOUT OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON APRIL 5, 2022 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Ned Price: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan today. The Secretary condemned the Kremlin’s heinous war crimes in Ukraine and highlighted the continued commitment of the U.S. and its partners to hold the Russian Federation and its enablers …

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Secretary Blinken’s Call with Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release READOUT March 14, 2022 Secretary Blinken’s Call with Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan The below is attributable to Spokesperson Ned Price: Secretary Antony J. Blinken spoke with Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan today.  The Secretary underscored the continuing importance of the U.S. – Armenia bilateral …

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The United States Donates 306,000 Doses of Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine to Armenia

YEREVAN – The United States Embassy in Armenia is pleased to announce the arrival of 306,000 doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in Armenia on March 14, 2022. This is a gift from the United States Government to the people of Armenia and is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s global vaccine sharing framework. The 306,000 …

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Statement by President Biden on Russia’s Unprovoked and Unjustified Attack on Ukraine

The prayers of the entire world are with the people of Ukraine tonight as they suffer an unprovoked and unjustified attack by Russian military forces. President Putin has chosen a premeditated war that will bring a catastrophic loss of life and human suffering. Russia alone is responsible for the death and destruction this attack will …

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Kremlin Decision on Eastern Ukraine

January 11, 2022 Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State We strongly condemn President Putin’s decision to recognize the so-called “Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics” as “independent.”  As we said when the Duma first made its request: this decision represents a complete rejection of Russia’s commitments under the Minsk agreements, directly contradicts Russia’s claimed commitment to …

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U.S. Ambassador to Armenian Lynne M. Tracy and Brigadier General Edward Vaughan participate in a donation ceremony of medical equipment worth $665,000

Yerevan, Armenia – U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Lynne M. Tracy and U.S. Air Force Brigadier General Edward Vaughan, Deputy Director of Plans, Policy, Strategy and Capabilities at United States European Command, participated on January 19, 2022, in a ceremony at the Central Military Hospital to mark the donation of $665,000 worth of medical equipment from …

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The United States Embassy in Armenia and the Prosecutor General’s Office of the Republic of Armenia Cooperate to Extradite a U.S. Fugitive

January 11, 2022 Pursuant to ongoing collaboration and strong partnerships, the United States and Armenian Law Enforcement Authorities and Prosecutors successfully extradited a wanted U.S. Citizen from Yerevan, Armenia to the U.S. on January 10, 2022. Following the issuance of an Interpol Red Notice, a U.S. citizen was arrested in August 2021, by Armenian Police …

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Statement by NSC Spokesperson Emily Horne

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 15, 2021 Statement by NSC Spokesperson Emily Horne on National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan’s Meeting with National Security Council Secretary Armen Grigoryan of Armenia National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan met with National Security Council Secretary Armen Grigoryan of Armenia today. Mr. Sullivan conveyed the commitment of the United States to peace, …

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Opening of the American Studies Center and Official Launch of the Master’s Program in American Studies

Yerevan, Armenia – On December 9, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Lynne Tracy and Yerevan State University acting Rector Hovhannes Hovhannisyan jointly participated in the opening of the American Studies Center and official launch of the first master’s program in American Studies at Yerevan State University. In 2019, YSU received a grant from the Public Diplomacy …

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Joint Statement by the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair Countries

WASHINGTON/MOSCOW/PARIS, 7 December 2021 – U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation Sergey Lavrov, and French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian, representing the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair countries, express support for the resumption of direct dialogue between Armenia and Azerbaijan under the auspices of the …

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U.S. Embassy statement on 2021 local elections

We commend the Armenian people for their participation in municipal elections on October 17, November 14, and December 5, as well as their continued commitment to Armenia’s democratic trajectory.  A small number of Embassy staff observed the elections in a visitor capacity.  We were pleased to see the elections were generally calm, peaceful, and well-administered.  …

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Human Rights Defenders Guidance

The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to putting human rights and democratic principles at the center of our foreign policy. These  Guidelines for U.S. Diplomatic Mission Support to Civil Society and Human Rights Defenders  outline and amplify the U.S.’s commitment to supporting this vital work as part of the President’s strategic vision and U.S. foreign policy. It is addressed primarily to both U.S. Department of State Human Rights Officers …

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Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group

STOCKHOLM, 4 December 2021 – The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Andrew Schofer of the United States of America, Igor Khovaev of the Russian Federation, and Brice Roquefeuil of France) released the following statement today: The Co-Chairs met with Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan on 1 December and with Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jehun Bayramov …

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Statement by Secretary Antony J. Blinken

For Immediate Release STATEMENT BY SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN November 16, 2021 Fighting Between Armenia and Azerbaijan The United States is deeply concerned about reports of intensive fighting today between Armenia and Azerbaijan. We urge both sides to take immediate concrete steps to reduce tensions and avoid further escalation.  We also call on the sides to engage …

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US Embassy, RA MoESCS, and COAF to Elevate Formal English Education in Armenia’s Rural Communities

YEREVAN — On 13 November, at the graduation ceremony of COAF’s English Access program, Children of Armenia Fund (COAF) Managing Director Koryun Khachaturyan, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Lynne M. Tracy, and Deputy Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports Zhanna Andreasyan signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding extending the pilot initiative “English-Speaking Rural Schools.” The …

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Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group

PARIS, 11 November 2021 — The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Andrew Schofer of the United States of America, Igor Khovaev of the Russian Federation, and Brice Roquefeuil of France) released the following statement today: The Co-Chairs met separately in Paris with Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov and Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan on …

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Recognizing the One-Year Anniversary of the Ceasefire Declaration Between Armenia and Azerbaijan

Ned Price, Department Spokesperson This week, the United States and the international community recognize the one-year anniversary of the ceasefire declaration that ended 44 days of intense fighting between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces in the South Caucasus.  We extend our deepest condolences to the families of those killed and injured during the hostilities last year. …

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Deputy Assistant Secretary Olson Visits Armenia

Erika Olson, the newly appointed Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs at the U.S. Department of State, will travel to Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia to promote regional cooperation and discuss bilateral issues. While in Yerevan, DAS Olson will   participate in a regional Chiefs of Mission meeting in November 2-4, joining U.S. Ambassador to Armenia …

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Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group

GENEVA, 8 October 2021 — The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Stephane Visconti of France, Andrew Schofer of the United States of America, and Igor Khovaev of the Russian Federation) released the following statement today:   The Co-Chairs held consultations with UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi and International Committee of the Red Cross …

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President Biden’s message to Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on the occasion of 30th anniversary of Armenia’s Independence.

Dear Mr. Prime Minister: On behalf of the American people, I wish you and the Armenian people a safe and happy Independence Day. Our two nations are bonded by history, family, and friendship, including 1.5 million Armenian-Americans whose contributions enrich and strengthen our bilateral ties. This year, we will mark 30 years of bilateral relations …

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Statement by Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State on Armenian Independence Day

On behalf of the United States of America, I send best wishes to the people of Armenia as you celebrate the 30th anniversary of your independence. In the three decades since Armenia rejected oppressive communist rule and declared independence from the Soviet Union, the United States and Armenia have developed a strong partnership based on …

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U.S.-Armenia Relations: Thirty Years of Partnership Rooted in Shared Values

by Ambassador Lynne M. Tracy, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia September 21, 2021 Exactly thirty years ago, the Armenian people overwhelmingly voted to secede from the Soviet Union, taking the first step to regain their status as an independent, sovereign nation. Today, as we commemorate the 30th anniversary of its independence, I see the strength and …

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U.S. Ambassador visits Spitak Medical Center to participate in the donation ceremony of medical equipment

Yerevan, Armenia – On September 7, U.S. Ambassador Lynne M. Tracy traveled to Lori to participate in a donation ceremony of aDigital Radiography and Fluoroscopy Machine to the Spitak medical Center. The medical imaging device, worth $255,000, is one component of a medical equipment donation to the Ministry of Health valued at$770,000 to support the …

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Executive Seminar on Counter Weapons of Mass Destruction in Armenia

With its long-standing partner, the Ministry of Emergency Situations, the US Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) initiated the first workshop of the Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Security Cooperation Engagement Program (CSCEP). Both partners committed to a program for enhanced training on CBRN preparedness and response. After pandemic delays, the CSCEP team launched the Executive …

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Joint Statement from the Department of State and Department of Defense: Update on Afghanistan

Given the deteriorating security situation, we support, are working to secure, and call on all parties to respect and facilitate, the safe and orderly departure of foreign nationals and Afghans who wish to leave the country. Those in positions of power and authority across Afghanistan bear responsibility—and accountability—for the protection of human life and property, and …

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Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETP)

On March 1, 2021, the Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETP) within the Biological Threat Reduction Program (BTRP) of the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) kicked off in Armenia. The opening ceremony included remarks from Ms. L. Avetisyan, the Deputy Director of the National Center for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDCP) of the RA Ministry of …

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2021 Investment Climate Statements

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release MEDIA NOTE July 21, 2021 2021 Investment Climate Statements Released Today the Department of State released the 2021 Investment Climate Statements, which analyze the investment climates of more than 170 countries and economies that are current or potential markets for U.S. companies. The reports …

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New graduate degree program in American Studies

The U.S. Embassy in Armenia is pleased to announce the launch of a new graduate degree program in American Studies, through the International Relations program at Yerevan State University. Funded by the U.S. Embassy in Armenia and implemented in partnership with Arizona State University, the American Studies Center is recruiting applicants for the new graduate program now through August …

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“Armenian Democracy is making progress” – A Talk with US Ambassador Lynne Tracy

Civilnet Interview with U.S. Ambassador Lynne Tracy July 15, 2021 EMILIO CRICCHIO:  Welcome to Civilnet.  Today we are joined by the United States Ambassador to Armenia, Lynne Tracy.  Ambassador Tracy has served in a number of countries, including Russia, Turkmenistan, Pakistan, and Kazakhstan.  She has been serving as United States Ambassador to Armenia since 2019. …

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Secretary Blinken’s Call with Armenian Acting Prime Minister Pashinyan

OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON JULY 14, 2021 Secretary Antony J. Blinken spoke yesterday with Armenian acting Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of Armenia. The Secretary offered hearty congratulations to the people of Armenia following the June 20 elections, in which the OSCE’s Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights found that voters’ fundamental rights and freedoms …

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The United States Welcomes Azerbaijan’s Release of Armenian Detainees and Armenia’s Actions to Facilitate Demining

The United States welcomes the July 3 release by Azerbaijan of 15 Armenian detainees and their return to Armenia.  We also welcome Armenia’s decision to share information with Azerbaijan that will facilitate humanitarian demining. These actions follow Azerbaijan’s June 12 release of Armenian detainees and Armenia’s decision to provide Azerbaijan information to facilitate humanitarian demining.  …

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Armenia’s Parliamentary Elections, Statement by Ned Price, Spokesperson

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release STATEMENT BY NED PRICE, SPOKESPERSON June 21, 2021 Armenia’s Parliamentary Elections The United States congratulates the people of Armenia on their June 20 parliamentary elections. We welcome the overall positive assessment by the OSCE/ODIHR Election Observation Mission. We are pleased that ODIHR’s preliminary conclusions noted voters’ human rights …

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Statement on behalf of international community partners providing electoral technical assistance in Armenia

As the people of Armenia head to the polls to elect a new parliament this Sunday, we in the international community encourage all participants to ensure that the high overall standard set in the previous elections of 2018 is met or exceeded. Towards this end, we have continued to provide technical support to the Central …

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United States Welcomes Actions by Armenia and Azerbaijan

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release STATEMENT BY SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN June 12, 2021 United States Welcomes Actions by Armenia and Azerbaijan The United States welcomes the release by Azerbaijan of 15 Armenian detainees and their return to their families in Armenia. We also welcome Armenia’s decision to provide …

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Acting Assistant Secretary Reeker’s Travel to Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Armenia

Acting Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs Philip T. Reeker will travel to Tbilisi, Georgia; Baku, Azerbaijan; and Yerevan, Armenia June 6-13 to advance bilateral and regional priorities and to express U.S. support for democratic and economic development across the region. Acting Assistant Secretary Reeker will meet in Georgia with government, opposition, and civil …

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Detention of Armenian Soldiers

PRESS STATEMENT NED PRICE, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON MAY 27, 2021 The United States is concerned by recent developments along the international border between Armenia and Azerbaijan, including the detention of several Armenian soldiers by Azerbaijani forces. We call on both sides to urgently and peacefully resolve this incident. We also continue to call on Azerbaijan to release immediately …

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Statement by President Joe Biden on Armenian Remembrance Day

Each year on this day, we remember the lives of all those who died in the Ottoman-era Armenian genocide and recommit ourselves to preventing such an atrocity from ever again occurring. Beginning on April 24, 1915, with the arrest of Armenian intellectuals and community leaders in Constantinople by Ottoman authorities, one and a half million …

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U.S. Ambassador Emphasizes U.S.-Armenia Partnerships During Trip to Syunik Region

This week, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia, Lynne M. Tracy, traveled through the Syunik region to learn first-hand from local officials and U.S. Embassy program partners how the region has been affected by the twin crises of the pandemic and conflict this past year. She also met with the recipients of several U.S. government grant projects …

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American Corners in Armenia celebrate National Library Week with Reading Marathon

On Friday, April 9, 2021, the U.S. Embassy’s five American Corners hosted a reading marathon in celebration of U.S. and Armenian National Library Weeks.  The marathon featured the bestselling American novel, “Wonder,” by R.J. Palacio.  The book teaches us to respect and value one another – to look beyond our external differences and appreciate that which unites us as human beings. U.S. …

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Secretary Blinken’s Call with Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan

READOUT OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON MARCH 5, 2021 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Ned Price: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan today. Secretary Blinken and Prime Minister Pashinyan emphasized the importance of the U.S.-Armenia bilateral partnership. The Secretary stressed the significance of respect for the rule of …

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Statement from the United States Embassy

The United States Embassy is closely following ongoing developments in Armenia, including statements by relevant stakeholders.  We encourage all parties to exercise calm and restraint and to de-escalate tensions peacefully, without violence.  The United States is committed to supporting Armenia’s democratic reforms, in line with our shared values, and stresses the importance of democratic institutions …

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“Democracy is Precious” by Ambassador Lynne M. Tracy, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia

On January 20, 2021 just before 12:00pm in Washington, D.C., President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. took the oath of office to become the 46th President of the United States.  His Vice President, Kamala Harris, was also sworn in, becoming not only the first woman, but also the first Black and Indian American to hold the …

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Inaugural Address by President Joseph R. Biden, Jr.

The United States Capitol 11:52 AM EST THE PRESIDENT: Chief Justice Roberts, Vice President Harris, Speaker Pelosi, Leader Schumer, Leader McConnell, Vice President Pence, distinguished guests, and my fellow Americans. This is America’s day. This is democracy’s day. A day of history and hope. Of renewal and resolve. Through a crucible for the ages America …

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U.S. Ambassador Lynne M. Tracy met with the President of Armenia Armen Sargsyan

U.S. Ambassador Lynne M. Tracy met with the President of Armenia Armen Sargsyan on November 19 to discuss the conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh and the current political situation in Armenia.  The Ambassador stressed the importance of democratic norms and values, condemned political violence, and encouraged all stakeholders to abide by the rule of law.  The Ambassador emphasized that the United States …

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U.S. Election Day 2020

Today, Tuesday, November 3, 2020, U.S. citizens 18 years and older not only cast their votes for the office of the President of the United States, but they are voting for representatives for the U.S. Congress, as well as state and local officials.  All 435 seats of the House of Representatives and 30 of the …

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Statement by Secretary Michael R. Pompeo on Armenian Independence Day

Armenian Independence Day September 21, 2020 On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Armenia as you celebrate Independence Day, in commemoration of your declaration of independence from the Soviet Union. The United States is committed to continuing to build our bilateral partnership as we strengthen the ties between our …

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Support to the Government of Armenia by the Defense Threat Reduction Agency to fight COVID-19 Outbreak in Armenia

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) has been standing by its partners in Armenia since the first days of the COVID -19 outbreak in the country. As the infection spread and the number of COVID -19 cases grew daily, the Government of Armenia faced the necessity to increase the daily testing capacities of the laboratories …

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U.S. Embassy in Yerevan and U.S. Embassy in Baku joint statement

The U.S. Embassy in Yerevan and the U.S. Embassy in Baku condemn acts of violence as inconsistent with the universal principles of peaceful assembly and protest. The United States takes seriously its obligation to protect diplomatic facilities and is working with local law enforcement to support this effort. Freedom of speech and peaceful assembly are …

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Proclamation Suspending Entry of Immigrants Who Present Risk to the U.S. Labor Market During the Economic Recovery Following the COVID-19 Outbreak

On Monday, June 22, President Trump signed a  proclamation  suspending entry into the United States of certain immigrants and nonimmigrants who present a risk to the U.S. labor market following the coronavirus outbreak. Effective immediately, the proclamation extends the suspension of entry for certain immigrants ( Presidential Proclamation 10014 ) through December 31, 2020. The new restrictions imposed by the proclamation …

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U.S. Assistance to Armenia for COVID-19

From the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the United States has been at the forefront of providing resources and support to assist our partners all over the world, including in Armenia. To date, the United States has provided $5.4 million in new assistance to Armenia to combat COVID-19.  In addition, we are redirecting previously allocated …

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Support to the Government of Armenia by the Defense Threat Reduction Agency amid COVID-19 Outbreak in Armenia

The United States is honored to work with its partner countries as we seek to save lives, ensure we are collectively better prepared to detect and report novel and emerging pathogens, and defeat deadly outbreaks such as COVID-19. In support of the Government of Armenia in the fight against COVID-19, the Defense Threat Reduction Agency …

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Statement by the President on Armenian Remembrance Day

Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 24, 2020 Statement by the President on Armenian Remembrance Day Today, we join the global community in memorializing the lives lost during the Meds Yeghern, one of the worst mass atrocities of the 20th century.  Beginning in 1915, 1 and a half million Armenians were deported, massacred, or marched to their deaths …

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Evacuated Peace Corps Volunteers Use App to Support Armenian Teenagers’ Dreams And Development

A feelgood story for the coronavirus age Elizabeth Morgan, 31, has spent fourteen days in quarantine in Chester, Maryland. She is one of 7,300 Peace Corps Volunteers whose international service was abruptly terminated by the spread of COVID-19. Morgan was serving in Sisian, Armenia. Thanks to smart use of technology, she is able to continue …

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NOTICE for U.S. Citizen Travelers – March 27

The U.S. Embassy in Yerevan Armenia would like to inform U.S. citizens in Armenia of potential flights out of Yerevan in the coming weeks.  Two airlines have indicated they would consider scheduling a flight if enough passengers are interested, possibly through Paris or Doha.  Availability of connecting flights is unpredictable and would be coordinated directly with …

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NOTICE for U.S. Citizen Travelers

STEP: Smart Traveler Enrollment Program Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad. Enroll for alerts at  step.state.gov . In Case of Emergency: Call 1-888-407-4747 (U.S./Canada); +1-202-501-4444 (overseas); or contact the nearest embassy:  go.usa.gov/xduQM. Recommended Web Browsers: Internet Explorer 11 with compatibility view or Google Chrome.

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Proclamation—Suspension of Entry as Immigrants and Nonimmigrants of Certain Additional Persons Who Pose a Risk of Transmitting 2019 Novel Coronavirus

Issued on: March 11, 2020 On January 31, 2020, I issued Proclamation 9984 (Suspension of Entry as Immigrants and Nonimmigrants of Persons Who Pose a Risk of Transmitting 2019 Novel Coronavirus and Other Appropriate Measures To Address This Risk).  I found that the potential for widespread transmission of a novel (new) coronavirus (which has since been renamed “SARS-CoV-2” …

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U.S. Embassy funds new American Library and Training Center in Tavush

Today, Acting Deputy Chief of Mission Lia Miller, alongside the Governor of Tavush Province, Hayk Chobanyan, and Country Director of Project Harmony International Armenia Office, Mariam Martirosyan, officially opened the American Library and Training Center – a new learning hub in Ijevan supported by the U.S. Embassy and housed at the Ijevan Branch of Yerevan …

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#BridgingStories II exhibit connects a second group of Armenian and Turkish photographers through shared stories

On Friday, January 24, 2020, U.S. Ambassador Lynne M. Tracy opened a photo exhibit in Yerevan highlighting new collaborations between young Armenian and Turkish photographers. The exhibit features a collection of work from 20 Armenian and Turkish photojournalists, who spent four months developing their skills and taking a remarkable set of photographs that tell the …

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U.S. Department of Energy Facilitates Armenian Translation of STCE Guide

The U.S. Department of Energy’s International Nonproliferation Export Control Program is pleased to partner with the State Revenue Committee of the Republic of Armenia in translating the World Customs Organization’s Strategic Trade Control and Enforcement (STCE) Guide into the Armenian language. The STCE Guide supports WCO Members in the development and review of strategic trade …

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American Councils Announces USG Alumni Summit

American Councils for International Education in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy in Armenia hosted the USG Alumni Network: Entrepreneurship & Innovation Conference. The conference brought alumni of U.S. government exchange programs together around the theme of innovation and entrepreneurship.  The event offered a substantive opportunity for these alumni to engage with one another and network, …

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U.S. Embassy supports Third Annual Career and Entrepreneurship Fair in Yerevan During Global Entrepreneurship Week

In recognition of Global Entrepreneurship Week, U.S. Ambassador Lynne M. Tracy delivered closing remarks at the Embassy-funded “Career Entrepreneurship Fair” at the Congress Hotel in Yerevan on Friday.  The fair was the culmination of a three-day “Career Camp,” organized by Haykuhi Gevorgyan, a U.S. Embassy exchange program alumna.  The Camp featured workshops and discussion panels …

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U.S.-Armenia Enhance Cooperation on Bio-terrorism Investigation

From October 31 to November 1, the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) offered a five-day course in International Joint Bio-Terrorism Investigation (IJBTI) for Armenian officials. The course brought together 24 mid-level public health, veterinary, and law enforcement officials from multiple disciplines, including the RA Ministries of Health, Economy, Emergency Situations, and Defense as well as …

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U.S. Government Assistance to Armenia Up 40% in 2019

The United States Embassy announced that the U.S. Government has further increased assistance funding to Armenia in 2019.  The figure for this year is more than $60 million, which represents a 40% increase over last year’s amount. The funding includes projects managed by not only the Department of State and the U.S. Agency for International …

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The most effective firefighter in the U.S. SmokeyBear will visit Armenia

YEREVAN, ARMENIA – Smokey Bear, the face of the longest-running public service announcement campaign in United States history, travels to Armenia next week as part of his first-ever trip abroad, continuing his legacy of bringing awareness to unwanted, human-caused fires.  The Smokey Bear wildfire prevention campaign has had a dramatic impact in the United States since its introduction in …

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U.S. Embassy Brings American Dancers to Armenia

This evening at the Stanislavsky Theater in Yerevan, the U.S. Embassy’s Deputy Chief of Mission Christopher Smith launched the Embassy-sponsored American Dance Abroad (ADA) program “FOCUS: USA.”  The U.S. Embassy contributed $50,000 to support the project, produced in cooperation with the High Fest International Performing Arts Festival, enabling the ADA to bring three stellar American …

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U.S. Ambassador Celebrates Shared Transatlantic Values between U.S. and Armenia

On September 25, 2019, the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan celebrated the completion of a project honoring shared U.S.-Armenian, transatlantic values, unveiling a 100-meter-long mural at the Embassy’s Gilmore Field.  U.S. Ambassador Lynne Tracy presided over the event, which was attended by young Armenian alumni of European and U.S. exchange programs as well as representatives of …

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U.S.-Funded Meghri Cultural Preservation Project Complete

On September 17, 2019, U.S. Ambassador Lynne M. Tracy joined Deputy Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sport Narine Khachaturyan, representatives of the Syunik region and the Meghri community to celebrate the completion of a U.S.-funded cultural preservation project in Meghri.  The project was funded by a $510,000 grant through the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural …

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The United States of America Celebrates Independence Day

Yerevan, Armenia – On July 2, 2019, the U.S. Embassy celebrated the 243rd anniversary of the independence of the United States of America with an evening of Motown music, American food, and fireworks.  At the event, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Deborah Grieser reaffirmed U.S. support for democratic development in Armenia.  “It has been exciting to be here …

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Trafficking in Persons Report (TIP Report) 2019

The Government of Armenia does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking but is making significant efforts to do so. The government demonstrated overall increasing efforts compared to the previous reporting period; therefore Armenia remained on Tier 2. The government demonstrated overall increasing efforts by providing robust training for law enforcement, …

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Ambassador Tracy: American Chamber of Commerce Policy Speech

I am honored to be representing the United States of America here in Armenia – and I have been keeping very busy during my first two and a half months here.  I think I have now met with every minister as well as many other representatives from across the Armenian government and parliament.  I have …

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USAID and Government of Armenia Extend Two Bilateral Agreements to Advance US-Armenia Strategic Dialogue

Yerevan, Armenia – On May 8, following the U.S.-Armenia Strategic Dialogue in Yerevan, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Government of Armenia signed extensions to two bilateral agreements to support Armenia’s private sector and democratic development. USAID Bureau for Europe and Eurasia’s Deputy Assistant Administrator Alexander Sokolowski, USAID/Armenia Mission Director Deborah …

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U.S.-Armenia Strategic Dialogue Joint Statement

The Governments of the United States of America and the Republic of Armenia recommitted to strengthening their relationship during the U.S.-Armenia Strategic Dialogue (USASD), held in Yerevan on May 7, 2019.  Armenian Foreign Minister Zohrab Mnatsakanyan hosted the dialogue and Deputy Foreign Minister Grigor Hovhannisyan led the Armenian delegation, with participation by Armenian Ambassador to …

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U.S.-Funded Dashtadem Cultural Preservation Project Complete

On April 30, 2019, U.S. Ambassador Lynne M. Tracy joined Deputy Minister of Culture Tigran Galstyan to celebrate the completion of a U.S.-funded cultural preservation project in Dashtadem.  The project, funded by a $143,175 grant through the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP), involved the excavation and partial restoration of the Dashtadem Fortress complex. …

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USAID Launches Rural Economic Development – New Economic Opportunities Program

Yerevan, Armenia – On April 22, 2019, USAID, the Center for Agribusiness & Rural Development (CARD), and partners marked the official launch of the new Rural Economic Development – New Economic Opportunities (RED-NEO) Program in Armenia. U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Lynne M. Tracy, and representative of the Armenian Government delivered opening remarks at the kick-off …

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American Corners in Armenia celebrate National Library Week with Reading Marathon

On Friday, April 12, the U.S. Embassy’s five American Corners hosted a reading marathon in celebration of U.S. and Armenian National Library Weeks.  The marathon featured the classic American novel, “The Martian Chronicles,” by Ray Bradbury. U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Lynne M. Tracy and Deputy Foreign Minister Grigor Hovhannisyan participated in the reading marathon alongside …

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U.S. Ambassador Lynne Tracy and Yerevan Mayor Hayk Marutyan opened a new technological hub in Yerevan

Today U.S. Ambassador Lynne Tracy, alongside the Mayor of Yerevan, HE Hayk Marutyan, officially opened TechnoLab – a new technological hub in Yerevan supported by the U.S. Embassy and the Isahakyan City Central Library. TechnoLab is an extension of the Yerevan American Corner and is the result of the ongoing successful collaboration between the U.S. …

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The 27th group of Peace Corps Volunteers arrived in Armenia

Last night, a new group of 37 Peace Corps Volunteers arrived in Armenia. The Volunteers are all U.S. citizens, who have made a decision to spend two years of theirs lives serving the Armenian people. The volunteers will live in towns and villages across Armenia, will co-teach English with local school teachers and work in …

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INL Supports Trainings in Armenia

U.S. Embassy Yerevan’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) was proud to sponsor two trainings from February 25 to March 1 to improve the capacity of Armenian law enforcement to investigate and prosecute corruption and drug trafficking. A team of 10 Armenian investigators from different investigative agencies (Special Investigation Service, Investigative Committee, Investigative …

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Armenia’s International Community to Honour Rights Advocates

Yerevan, Armenia – The U.S. Embassy, the Delegation of the European Union to Armenia, the United Nations, the Embassy of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Council of Europe in Armenia, and the Embassy of Sweden honored individuals working to promote human rights, freedom of expression, diversity, democracy, transparency, legal reform …

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INL Completes Project Assisting Prisoners and Staff at Armenia’s Only Prison for Women and Juveniles

The six-month project “Abovyan Prison: Establishing a Culture of Transparency, Efficiency and Rehabilitation,” implemented by Armenia’s Civil Society Institute NGO (CSI), officially concluded January 18.  This $121,000 project helped improve conditions for the incarcerated population at Abovyan prison (Armenia’s only prison for females and juveniles) by providing training and skills to improve their mental and …

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Treasury Designates Iran’s Foreign Fighter Militias in Syria along with a Civilian Airline Ferrying Weapons to Syria

WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) took action against two Syria-based Iranian militias composed of foreign nationals, an Iranian airline linked to designated Iranian airline Mahan Air and Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Qods Force (IRGC-QF), as well as an Armenian general sales agent (GSA) providing services to Mahan Air.  The Fatemiyoun Division, composed …

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U.S. Embassy Organizes “Role of Women in Justice” Conference

Today U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Rafik Mansour opened the “Role of Women in Justice” conference in Yerevan.  The conference was organized by the Embassy’s International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Office with the goal of bringing together Armenian judges, lawyers, investigators, and law enforcement personnel to discuss cultural obstacles in the justice system and how to …

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Statement by Robert Palladino, Deputy Spokesperson

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson Armenia’s 2018 Parliamentary Elections The United States congratulates the people of Armenia on the conduct of their December 9 parliamentary elections.  We welcome the assessment by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe’s (OSCE) Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights that Armenia’s parliamentary elections were …

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Statement of Lynne Tracy Ambassadorial Nominee to Armenia

Mr. Chairman, Ranking Member Menendez, and distinguished Members of the Committee:  I am honored to appear before you today as President Trump’s nominee to be the next U.S. Ambassador to Armenia.  I am grateful to the President and Secretary Pompeo for the confidence they have placed in me.  If confirmed, I pledge to work closely …

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Stories Beyond the Ruins

The New Website Presents Stories from the 1988 Armenian Earthquake and Beyond For the 30th anniversary of the 1988 Armenian earthquake, a group of Peace Corps Volunteers together with Armenian volunteers have initiated a project called Story Beyond the Ruins. The American volunteers together with Armenians have created a website ( https://www.storybeyondtheruins.com/ ) where you can …

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U.S. Delegation Commemorates Spitak Earthquake

This week the U.S. Embassy was pleased to welcome to Armenia a delegation from the U.S. state of Kansas headed by Governor Jeff Colyer and the Adjutant General of Kansas, Major General Lee Tafanelli.  The delegation traveled to Armenia to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the devastating Spitak earthquake and to pay their respects to …

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U.S. Embassy Officials Discuss Elections Assistance with Armenia’s Central Electoral Commission

On November 21, U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Rafik Mansour and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Armenia Mission Director Deborah Grieser met with Chairman of the Central Electoral Commission (CEC) of Armenia Tigran Mukuchyan. The parties discussed U.S. assistance and collaboration with the Government of Armenia ahead of the December 9 parliamentary elections, including the …

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U.S. experts on Iran sanctions policy visit Armenia

An interagency team of subject matter experts from the U.S. Departments of State and Treasury visited Yerevan November 15-16 to discuss Iran sanctions policies with counterparts in the Armenian government and business community.  This visit is the latest in a series of engagements designed to explain U.S. sanctions policy against Iran to governments around the …

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During Global Entrepreneurship Week, U.S. Embassy supports Career and Entrepreneurship Fair in Yerevan

In recognition of Global Entrepreneurship Week, U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Rafik Mansour spoke at the opening of an Embassy-funded career and entrepreneurship fair at the Marriott Hotel in Yerevan on Friday.   Haykuhi Gevorgyan, a U.S. Embassy program alumna, coordinated the event, which featured workshops and discussion panels on topics including business startups, media literacy, and …

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Press Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group

YEREVAN / BAKU, November 2, 2018 – The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Igor Popov of the Russian Federation, Stéphane Visconti of France, and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America), together with the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Andrzej Kasprzyk, visited the region October 29-November 2.  The main purpose of the …

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John Bolton Interview with Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL)

Yerevan, Armenia October 25, 201 Harry Tamrazyan, RFE/RL: So, Mr. Bolton, we know that you just came up from the meeting with the Prime Minister of Armenia. Can you share with us what has been discussed and what’s your impression of the new government? Ambassador Bolton: Well, we discussed a very wide range of subjects …

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National Security Advisor John Bolton Press Conference

Yerevan, Armenia October 25, 2018 Ambassador Bolton: Thank you very much, Sarah. It’s a great pleasure to be here and thanks to all of you for coming today. I understand I am the first U.S. National Security Advisor to come since 1997 so I am particularly happy to be here and was very grateful to …

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Armenian Investigators Attend 2018 Chiefs of Police Conference

A group of INL-sponsored Armenian investigators from the Investigative Committee (IC) and State Revenue Committee (SRC) attended the largest annual law enforcement gathering in the world – the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Conference – in Orlando from October 6-9.  In addition to networking with U.S., Georgian, and Kosovar counterparts, the Armenian delegation held …

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Farewell Speech As Prepared Ambassador Richard M. Mills

Farewell Speech As Prepared Ambassador Richard M. Mills American Chamber of Commerce Tuesday, October 09, 2018 This is a bittersweet evening for me. While I am delighted to be here once again at the invitation of the American Chamber of Commerce in Armenia, I know it is for the last time, as my tenure as …

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United States Announces Assistance Increase for Armenia

Today, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Richard M. Mills, Jr., was pleased to announce an increase in U.S. assistance funding for Armenia.  The United States recently provided more than $14 million in additional foreign assistance resources for initiatives in Armenia following the political transition, and in the coming year the U.S. government intends to provide more …

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Armenia National Day

Press Statement Michael R. Pompeo  Secretary of State Washington, DC September 20, 2018 On behalf of the government of the United States, it is my pleasure to congratulate the people of Armenia on the 27th anniversary of your historic vote to reclaim and restore your national independence. This year is especially important because it also …

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U.S. Embassy donates $80,000 of equipment to Tsiatsan and Amberd schools

Today, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Richard M. Mills, Jr., along with representatives from the U.S. Embassy’s Office of Defense Cooperation, visited Tsiatsan and Amberd schools to donate $80,000 worth of new school equipment, training aids, furniture, sports equipment, and kitchen appliances. These schools were chosen to receive the donation, provided by the U.S. Department of …

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U.S. Embassy’s Franchise Conference Connects American Businesses with Armenian Investors

The U.S. Embassy in Yerevan and the U.S. Commercial Service in Moscow, in partnership with IDBank, organized a one-day conference focused on franchise business opportunities on September 5 in Yerevan.  The event is part of an ongoing effort to foster trade and investment between the United States and Armenia. The conference gave participants rare and …

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OPIC Leads Delegation to Promote U.S. Investment in Armenia

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 14, 2018 For further information, contact: Carol Danko, (202) 304-3726 Carol.Danko@opic.gov   YEREVAN, ARMENIA – Executive Vice President of the U.S. government’s Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) David Bohigian and other U.S. government officials traveled to Yerevan to promote U.S. investment in Armenia.  The delegation met with senior government officials, business leaders from U.S.-based …

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Building bridges between two nations, U.S. Embassy bring U.S. students to Armenia for internships

The global marketplace is constantly shrinking. To survive in any profession after graduation, today’s university students need to understand how to work across borders and in different cultures. This is why USA Study Abroad, a U.S. Department of State program, is working to expose young Americans to foreign cultures. This year, the U.S. Embassy in …

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U.S. Embassy joins RA Ministry of Education and Science and COAF to expand English Education in Rural Armenia

English opens doors.  With English language skills you can study in the United States, access academic research, talk to potential clients, and check a variety of news outlets to expand your horizons.  That is why the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan has joined forces with the Armenian Ministry of Education and Science and the Children of …

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U.S. Embassy brings basketball greats to Armenia for training camps focused on basketball and leadership

The United States and Armenia both share a love and passion for sports, and in the spirit of sports diplomacy the U.S. Embassy in Armenia brought two professional basketball legends, Ruthie Bolton and Shari Sam, to Armenia for a series of workshops and training camps to help Armenian youth and coaches improve their basketball skills …

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U.S. Embassy donates evidence examination tools to National Bureau of Expertises

To help Armenian experts extract, preserve, and analyze electronic forensic materials, ensuring fairer trials, the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan recently donated more than $17,000 worth of digital evidence examination software and tools to the Republic of Armenia National Academy of Sciences National Bureau of Expertises (NBE). Organized by the Embassy’s International Narcotics and Law Enforcement …

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Ambassador Richard Mills, Jr. Remarks at Embassy July 4th Celebration

Barev dzez!  Thank you to the Hover Choir for that beautiful rendition of our national anthems. Foreign Minister Mnatsakanyan and other Ministers present, members of the Diplomatic Corps, members of the Armenian government, partners, and friends.  Welcome! America’s Founding Fathers 242 years ago, feeling their rights were not respected, risked their lives to throw off …

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Partnership between prison authorities in Colorado and Armenia continues

In June, the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan brought instructors from the Colorado Department of Corrections’ International Corrections Management Training Center (ICMTC) to Armenia to share best practices on managing prisons. This is just the latest part of an on-going exchange of ideas between the authorities in Colorado and their peers in Armenia. In November-December 2017, …

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U.S. Embassy to bring zydeco music to Yerevan’s Cascade for public concert July 4th

This year, the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan is celebrating U.S. Independence Day with a free, open-air concert at the Cafesjian Sculpture Garden on July 4th at 20:00 featuring the lively, unique sounds of Dwayne Dopsie and The Zydeco Hellraisers. Zydeco is a type of music that evolved in the bayous of Louisiana, as the French …

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The United States of America Celebrates Independence Day

Yerevan, Armenia – On July 3, the U.S. Embassy celebrated the 242nd anniversary of the independence of the United States at the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan with a summer evening of zydeco music, food, and fireworks.  During the event, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Richard Mills, Jr. and guest of honor Armenian Foreign Minister Zohrab Mnatsakanian praised …

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New INL Project to Support Female and Juvenile Inmate Rehabilitation

The International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) Office of the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan launched a new project to provide managerial and specialized technical support to the Abovyan prison for women and juveniles.  The six-month project titled “The Abovyan prison: Establishing the Culture of Transparency, Efficiency and Rehabilitation” will be implemented by Civil Society …

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Press Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group following their meetings with Armenian officials

YEREVAN, 14 June 2018 – The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Igor Popov of the Russian Federation, Stephane Visconti of France, and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America) together with the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Andrzej Kasprzyk, met with Foreign Minister Zohrab Mnatsakanyan, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, Defense Minister Davit …

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U.S. Embassy helps alumni bring Art Alive!

Art allows us to express our emotions, share our thoughts, and communicate our culture. That’s why, over the years, the U.S. Embassy has been proud to send a number of artists and art community leaders to the United States on various exchange programs. Now alumni of those programs are banding together to highlight the vibrant …

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U.S. Embassy continues celebration of social inclusion of individuals with disabilities

As a continuation of its “Wonder-ful Life” campaign started in 2014, which saw the translation of the book “Wonder” into Armenian and development of a curriculum to help more than 50 schools teach the importance of social inclusion for individuals with disabilities, the U.S. Embassy will be offering two free public screenings of the Hollywood …

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U.S. Embassy and AmCham focus on supporting U.S. investment in Armenia

On June 1, the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan, in partnership with the American Chamber of Commerce in Armenia (AmCham) and the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC), the U.S. Government’s development finance institution, organized a discussion focused on attracting U.S. investments to Armenia.  The workshop specifically focused on how companies and investors can work with the …

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Ambassador Richard Mills, Jr. Remarks at swearing in of Peace Corps Volunteers

Thank you. It is always an honor to join Peace Corps Armenia as we swear in a new group of volunteers. I find it a personal pleasure to see so many of my fellow Americans eager to work alongside our Armenian partners, building a strong future for Armenia through their work and developing the personal …

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U.S. Embassy’s American Film Showcase will inspire, empower, and encourage

After receiving standing-room-only crowds last year, the U.S. Embassy is proud to bring back the American Film Showcase 2018.  This year the film festival’s theme is “Inspire, Empower, and Encourage,” and it features a number of documentaries to showcase the power of individuals to change the world.  Films will be screened for free June 4-10. …

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U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Bridget Brink visits Armenia

Bridget Brink, Deputy Assistant Secretary (DAS) in the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs, visited Armenia May 27-28 for meetings with the new government and civil society. In her first meeting with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, DAS Brink congratulated him on the election and for a peaceful transition of government.  She welcomed …

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Armenian Delegation attends OSCE 18th Counter-Trafficking-in-Persons Alliance Conference

On April 23-24, the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) sponsored an Armenian delegation of ten representatives from key stakeholder organizations to attend the 18thAlliance against Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Conference organized by the OSCE in Vienna. This year’s event focused on promoting inclusive partnerships to further enhance the coherence …

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INL Sponsors DHS Financial Investigations Training

From April 17-20, the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) sponsored a series of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) trainings, led by Homeland Security Investigations special agents, for Armenian investigators, Financial Intelligence Unit staff, prosecutors, and judges. The course focused on investigations and prosecutions of financial crimes, offering participants updates …

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U.S. Ambassador visits southern Armenia to see Embassy-supported projects

U.S. Ambassador visits southern Armenia to see Embassy-supported projects English students, ancient frescos, and handcrafted accessories – when U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Richard Mills, Jr., and his spouse Leigh traveled to Syunik Province this week his agenda was filled with visits to a variety of efforts supported by the U.S. Embassy in Armenia. “As lovely …

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Situation in Armenia

STATEMENT BY HEATHER NAUERT, SPOKESPERSON April 28, 2018 The United States continues to monitor closely the situation in Armenia.  As a friend of Armenia, we urge all parties to engage in good faith negotiations on the formation of a new government in accordance with the Constitution, and to reach a resolution that reflects the interests …

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Statement from the U.S. Embassy

The Office of the Acting Prime Minister and the U.S. Embassy regret that the quote attributed to Ambassador Mills in the press release issued by the Prime Minister’s Office today was a mistranslation of the Ambassador’s comments and the views of the U.S. government.  As the U.S. Embassy has said before, peaceful assembly of the …

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The United States Urges Constructive Dialogue in Armenia

STATEMENT BY HEATHER NAUERT, SPOKESPERSON April 24, 2018 The coming days represent a historic moment for the people of Armenia and its elected leaders, as they embark on the process of forming a new government.  We urge all sides to engage constructively, within the legal framework of the Armenian constitution, to ensure a peaceful transition …

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Statement by the President on Armenian Remembrance Day 2018

Today we commemorate the Meds Yeghern, one of the worst mass atrocities of the 20th century, when one and a half million Armenians were deported, massacred, or marched to their deaths in the final years of the Ottoman Empire.  We recall the horrific events of 1915 and grieve for the lives lost and the many …

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American Corners in Armenia celebrate National Library Week with Reading Marathon

“It was a dark and stormy night.” So begins the story of “A Wrinkle in Time,” a classic piece of U.S. fiction by author Madeleine L’Engle, which was read aloud in the U.S. Embassy’s five American Corners in Armenia on Friday, April 13, in celebration of both U.S. and Armenian National Library Week. The Reading …

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U.S. Embassy brings leadership and fundraising expert to Armenia for public seminar

The U.S. Embassy in Yerevan is pleased to be bringing to Armenia Nancy Bocskor, an internationally-known expert in applied democracy. She will be leading two all-day public lectures. The first on April 7 focuses on fundraising and is designed for professionals from civic, educational, and cultural organizations. The second, on April 8, will explore leadership …

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Organizational Psychology Seminar for Justice Sector

The head of the U.S. Embassy’s International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Office, Dr. Shannon Behaj, recently presented a seminar at Armenia’s Justice Academy.  She introduced the concepts of organizational psychology, including motivation, diversity, procedural justice, and leadership in organizations to leaders from the Justice Academy, Prosecutor General’s Office, Investigative Committee, Special Investigation Service, and …

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New INL Armenia Justice Academy Anticorruption and Human Rights Curriculum Development Project

The International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) Office of the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan recently launched a new project to support sustainable curriculum development for training Armenia’s investigators, prosecutors, and judges.  The one-year cooperative agreement, implemented by the U.S. National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA) with Yerevan State University, will support the Armenian Justice …

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Application now open for visual effects and computer graphics masterclass with U.S. expert

The U.S. Embassy’s American Film Showcase 2018 “Inspire, Empower, Encourage” will feature free screenings of thirteen feature documentaries from April 27 to May 3 at the Moscow Cinema. Like last year, the film festival is about more than watching movies. It will also feature a master class for young Armenian filmmakers. This year, the workshop …

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Statement on inaccurate reports about U.S. budget spending

The budget agreement recently signed by U.S. President Donald J. Trump includes funding for foreign assistance programs, including those in Armenia.  Recent reports that the funding plan eliminates all foreign assistance to Armenia are wrong and based on a misunderstanding of the U.S. budget process. Given the strong separation of powers in the U.S. Constitution, …

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Promoting Women’s Role in Law Enforcement

The U.S. Embassy’s International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) Bureau recently sent a delegation of 10 Armenian women working in law enforcement to attend the 7th annual Women in Police Conference, hosted by the INL office at the U.S. Embassy in Georgia. This was an opportunity for female officers to network and exchange ideas …

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The 26th group of Peace Corps Volunteers arrived to Armenia

Last night 42 American Peace Corps Volunteers have arrived to Armenia. The Volunteers form the 26th group of Peace Corps Volunteers to serve in our country. With the addition of this new group, currently there are approximately 110 Peace Corps Volunteers serving in rural villages and towns throughout all of the regions of Armenia. The …

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U.S. Citizen Fugitive Located in Armenia and Extradited to the United States

The United States Embassy in Yerevan Armenia and the General Prosecutor’s Office of the Republic of Armenia Cooperate to Extradite a U.S. Fugitive U.S. and Armenian law enforcement authorities and prosecutors coordinated the capture and return of a U.S. citizen fugitive located in Yerevan, Armenia. United States Ambassador to the Republic of Armenia Richard Mills, …

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U.S. Ambassador Mills unveils plans to expand Yerevan American Corner

On March 2, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Richard Mills, Jr., announced plans to expand the Yerevan American Corner during a ceremony in which he was presented with the Avetik Isahakyan Medal in recognition of his contribution to the development of the Yerevan City Central Library. “While you present this award to me, it is important …

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U.S. Embassy in Armenia on Visa Fraud Case Statement for Media

United States citizen Stella Boyadjian and Armenian citizens Diana Grigoryan aka “Dina Akopovna” and Hrachya Atoyan were recently indicted by a U.S. Federal Grand Jury for their alleged roles in a visa fraud operation that illegally brought Armenian citizens to the United States for profit.  The indictment includes charges of conspiracy, visa fraud, money laundering, …

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Joint INL and DEA Advanced Narcotics Investigation Course

Yerevan, Armenia — The U.S. Embassy’s International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) office sponsored an advanced narcotics investigation course led by officers from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in Yerevan on February 5-9, 2018.  Representatives from four Armenian law enforcement agencies participated in this five-day course, which included case studies and tabletop exercises on …

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Press Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group following their meetings with the Presidents of Azerbaijan and Armenia

BAKU / YEREVAN, 11 February 2018 – The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Igor Popov of the Russian Federation, Stephane Visconti of France, and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America), together with the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Andrzej Kasprzyk, met with President Ilham Aliyev in Baku on 7 February and President …

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U.S. Trains Armenian Legal Experts on Intellectual Property Rights

The U.S. Embassy’s International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) office, together with a visiting delegation of U.S. Homeland Security agents, trained Armenian judges, prosecutors, and investigators on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) protection and investigation November 27 – December 1, 2017. The training highlighted the link between IPR and transnational organized crime and national security, with …

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New INL Armenia Legal Education and Active Participation (LEAP) Project for Juvenile Justice

The International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) Office of the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan, on November 13, 2017, launched a new project to support juvenile justice.  The one-year Legal Education and Active Participation (LEAP) cooperative agreement, implemented by Project Harmony, will support community-oriented social justice through positive interactions between youth and law enforcement officials. …

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Immigration Scam Targeting Syrian Refugees

U.S. Embassy Yerevan wishes to alert Syrian refugees in Armenia of an ongoing attempted immigration fraud.  Several Syrian families seeking to relocate to the United States from Armenia have fallen victim to a scam which consists of an individual promising relocation and refugee travel document services from U.S. Embassy Yerevan in return for a fee …

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Embassy Sends Delegation on Open World Judicial Exchange

The International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) Office of the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan selected four Armenian participants for an Open World Exchange Program focused on the Judicial System in the United States.  INL also helped develop the program, which took place in Washington, DC, and Norfolk, Virginia.  The delegation included a public defender, the …

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U.S. Embassy’s INL Office Sponsors Armenian Delegation to the International Corrections and Prisons Association Conference

From October 22 to 27, the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) Office of the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan sponsored the participation of two representatives from the Armenian Ministry of Justice to attend the 19th Annual International Corrections and Prisons Association (ICPA) Conference in London. The annual conference is the largest international gathering of its …

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U.S. Embassy Concert Showcases 25 Years of U.S.-Armenian Friendship

A U.S. Embassy-sponsored concert, “Holiday Magic,” dazzled the Armenian public with American and Armenian Christmas music performed by talented up-and-coming Armenian bands and musicians.  The festive event marked the end of a year long celebration of America’s 25 years of partnership and friendship with an independent and sovereign Republic of Armenia, using song, verse, dancing, …

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U.S. Expert Providing Post-Forest Fire Support to Armenia

An expert from the U.S. Forest Service concludes a working visit to Armenia today. Together with the Ministry of Emergency Situations and the Ministry of Nature Protection, applied fire ecologist Jennifer Croft supported an assessment of wildfire fighting capabilities that will help the Armenian government further improve its ability to fight wildfires in the future.  …

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INL-FBI-Justice Academy Partnership: Social Media and Open Source Investigations Training

The International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) Office of the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan organized a three-day training on social media and open source investigations for investigators from the Special Investigative Service, Investigative Committee, and National Security Service, and for representatives from the Ministry of Justice.  This collaborative effort utilized Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) …

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Armenia’s International Community to Honour Rights Advocates

Yerevan, Armenia – The U.S. Embassy, the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, the Delegation of the European Union to Armenia, the Embassy of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Embassy of the Republic of France, the United Nations, and the Council of Europe honoured individuals working to promote human …

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International Day of People with Disabilities Celebrates Accomplishments, Notes Need for Sustainability

On this, the International Day of People with Disabilities, the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan would like to recognize the achievements and contributions of Armenians with disabilities to create a more just and equal society. People with disabilities have contributed to Armenian society in numerous ways. They are parliamentarians, civil society leaders, teachers, lawyers, artists and …

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The U.S. and Europe: Strengthening Western Alliances

SECRETARY TILLERSON: Well, good morning, and thank you, Jane, for that very kind introduction, and also thanks to the Wilson Center for this opportunity to address you today. The Wilson Center has made many important contributions to public policy over the years, and therefore it’s a very fitting venue for our discussion today on Europe, considering …

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U.S. Embassy Launches Armenian Translation of Bestselling Novel “Out of My Mind”

In support of Armenia’s efforts to move toward a fully inclusive education system, and as part of the U.S. Embassy’s program to bring select American literature to Armenian audiences, the Armenian version of New York Times bestselling novel “Out of My Mind” by Sharon Draper was launched today at AGBU.  With Ms. Draper leading a …

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International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

On 25 November, the world observes the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. This day also marks the start of a global awareness raising campaign – the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence – that runs annually from 25 November to 10 December. Every woman and every girl has the right …

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Serving the Leaders of Today, Developing the Leaders of Tomorrow – INL Supports Armenian Delegation to International Association of Chiefs of Police

October 21-24, 2017, the U.S. State Department’s International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Office (INL) supported a delegation of senior Armenian investigators to participate in the 124th International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) annual conference. The IACP is an organization that shapes the law enforcement profession, develops law enforcement leaders, and provides educational and …

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Career and Job Fair launched with the support of U.S. Embassy

To cap off a busy Global Entrepreneurship Week, the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan, together with Haykuhi Gevorkyan of Career Lab and Araksia Martirosyan of International Academy of Business, connected job recruiters with job seekers at a career and entrepreneurship fair at the Marriott Hotel in Yerevan. The fair offered workshops on resume writing, panel discussions …

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Forensic Management Training for Armenian National Bureau of Expertises

In September 2017, The U.S. State Department’s International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Office (INL) organized a training session for Armenia’s National Bureau of Expertise.  The training focused on strengthening sustainability, quality assurance, and forensic management, supporting Armenia’s efforts to modernize its law enforcement and counter transnational crime and drug trafficking. The session was led …

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Opening of Ministry of Health and Agriculture Martuni Laboratory in Gegharkunik

On 16 October, the US Ambassador, Richard Mills Jr. and the Minister of Health Dr. Levon Altunyan officially opened the newly renovated Ministry of Health and Agriculture Martuni Laboratory in Gegharkunik. This was followed by two more laboratory grand openings in Kapan and Vanadzor. The labs are designed to help Armenia track, monitor, and fight …

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U.S. Embassy and U.S. Foreign Commercial Service Team Up to Support the Agriculture Sector in Armenia

On November 1, the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan, in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and HSBC Bank Armenia, organized business conference focused on Armenia’s agriculture sector. The goal was to connect Armenian companies involved in the sector with the expertise, products, and technology of well-known U.S. companies Valmont and Monsanto. The conference aimed to …

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INL Anti-Corruption Training for Armenian Ministry of Justice and Prison Staff:

INL enlisted experts from the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (MPSCS) and from the U.S. Department of Justice to deliver anti-corruption training in Yerevan.  The training sought to bolster Armenia’s capabilities to identify, investigate, and prevent corruption in correctional institutions and was delivered in two phases – both phases combining practitioners and …

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U.S. Department of State Announces Opening of the Registration Period for 2019 Diversity Visa “Green Card” Lottery

Yerevan, Armenia – The U.S. Department of State announces the opening of the registration period for the 2019 Diversity Visa (DV) lottery, also known as the “Green Card Lottery.” The new registration period for DV-2019 opens for electronic entries at noon, Eastern Daylight Time, Wednesday, October 18, 2017, and closes at noon, Eastern Standard Time, …

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New Entry Period for United States 2019 Diversity Visa Program (Dv-2019)

Due to technical issues, the registration period for the 2019 Diversity Visa Program is being restarted, and all entries made prior to October 18, 2017, will need to be resubmitted for the entrant to be considered.  We regret the inconvenience to Diversity Visa entrants.  In order to ensure fairness and protect the integrity of the …

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U.S. Embassy joins Ministry of Health to open regional disease prevention labs

Residents in Martuni, Kapan, and Vanadzor are safer today thanks to the construction of laboratories designed to track, monitor, and fight infections.  The labs — constructed by the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan, provided with new technology, and updated to meet modern seismic safety standards – are part of the Ministry of Health’s National Center for …

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U.S. Embassy Cultural and Partnership Tour of Armenia Continues

The U.S. Embassy is once again headed to the regions, this time showcasing American film, dance, and literature in celebration of its 25-year anniversary in Armenia.  The cultural and partnership tour, called “America on the Road Again,” will kick off October 14 and run through the end of November. “This summer we targeted larger regional …

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Op-Ed by USAID Armenia Mission Director Deborah Grieser

Partners and Friends, It is my great honor to lead the USAID Mission in Armenia. Since 1992, USAID has partnered with the Government of Armenia and its citizens to address a variety of challenges.  Over 25 years, USAID assistance and USAID’s partnership with Armenia has evolved to respond to Armenia’s changing needs in its transition …

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Upcoming OSCE Co-chair visit to region

Mr. Andrew J. Schofer, the new U.S. Co-Chair for the OSCE Minsk Group, will pay his first visit to Yerevan and Baku this week to meet with local officials and to get a firsthand look at the situation on the ground. While in the region, Mr. Schofer will also join his fellow Minsk Group Co-Chairs for high-level meetings.‎ The U.S. supports …

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U.S. Embassy sponsors Armenian-Turkish photojournalism book #BridgingStories

Photos of everyday events and shared common memories, captured on both sides of a closed border by young Armenian and Turkish photographers, are available in a powerful photo book called “#BridgingStories.”  The book was launched on September 26 in Yerevan, bringing together the mentors and several of the young photographers whose work is included in …

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Ambassador Mills opens U.S. government-funded Areni Cave preservation project

In the hills, just down the road from the Noravank Monastery, is a cave known as Areni-1.  At first glance, it would be easy to miss.  But as archeologists worked in the cave they found some important items, such as the earliest-known human shoe and the earliest winery.  This speaks to our shared human heritage, …

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Unlocking Armenia’s Potential for Duty-Free Exports to United States Using Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) Program

On September 13, Ed Gresser, the Assistant United States Trade Representative for Trade Policy and Economics, led a discussion with Armenian officials and business leaders on how to boost Armenia’s exports to the United States.  By utilizing the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program, Armenian companies can take advantage of preferential duty-free access to the …

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U.S. Forest Service Team in Armenia for Post-Fire Recovery Support

A team of experts from the U.S. Forest Service is in Armenia working with the Ministry of Nature Protection to assist with decisions of where, when, and how to apply the most effective post-fire treatments to mitigate erosion, flooding, and promote long-term watershed health and vegetation recovery following the Khosrov and Artavan fires. The team, …

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U.S. Embassy Defense Attaché Commemorates Sasnashen Plane Tragedy

On September 2, U.S. Defense Attaché in Armenia Colonel Bruce A. Murphy and other Department of Defense members from the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan  joined residents of Sasnashen to mark the 59th anniversary of the crash of a U.S. Air Force C-130, which was shot down by Soviet fighter jets over Armenian soil.  The crash, …

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Alumni of George C. Marshall Center discuss Armenia’s security challenges

On Friday, leaders from Armenia’s military, ministries, institutions and agencies joined all alumni of the George C. Marshall Center’s Center for Security Studies for a conference focused on exploring Armenia’s security challenges. Since 1995, more than 240 Armenians have attended courses and conferences organized by the George C. Marshall Center, a U.S.-German security and defense …

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U.S. Officials Donate Legal Books to Armenia’s Justice Academy

On August 30, officials from the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan and visitors from the U.S. State Department met with officials from Armenia’s Justice Academy.  The U.S. delegation donated several boxes of legal books to the Academy’s library. Justice Academy Rector Sergei Arakelyan welcomed the U.S. selegation, which included representatives of the U.S. State Department’s Bureau …

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International Religious Freedom Report 2016 – Armenia

Executive Summary The constitution grants everyone the rights of freedom of thought, conscience, and religion. In establishing freedom of worship, the constitution stipulates the separation of religious organizations and the state. It recognizes the Armenian Apostolic Church (AAC) as the national church and preserver of national identity. Christian minority religious groups had the freedom to …

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Wisconsin’s Latest Export: Public Defender Expertise SPD and INL Assisting Armenia Public Defenders

(Madison) The Wisconsin State Public Defender (SPD) is lending its expertise to strengthen the public defense system of the Republic of Armenia.  Funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), the SPD’s involvement continues the agency’s track record of assisting public defense programs operating in other jurisdictions …

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Kansas National Guard medical and hazardous material experts to train firefighters in Armenia

A team of Kansas National Guardsmen is in the Republic of Armenia to train Armenian firefighters in first aid, life-saving techniques, and hazardous material awareness, recognition and response. The Kansas Guardsmen are joined by soldiers from the United Kingdom’s Royal Army Medical Corps, and members of the British Army’s 6th Rifles Battalion. Together, they will …

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Trafficking in Persons Report 2017 on Armenia

The Government of Armenia fully meets the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking. The government continued to demonstrate serious and sustained efforts during the reporting period; therefore, Armenia remained on Tier 1. The government demonstrated serious and sustained efforts by identifying more victims, adopting a national action plan, and establishing and allocating funds for …

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The United States of America Celebrates Independence Day

Yerevan, Armenia – On June 30, the U.S. Embassy celebrated the 241th anniversary of the independence of the United States at the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan with a summer evening of jazz, food, and fireworks.  During the event, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Richard Mills, Jr. and guest of honor Armenian Prime Minister Karen Karapetyan praised the …

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U.S. offers Armenian law enforcement best practices in counter-narcotics

Armenian law enforcement officers learned new counter-narcotics skills in a recent course offered jointly by the U.S. State Department’s International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Office (INL) and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). In May 2017, two officers from the Armenian Police’s Counter-Narcotics Unit traveled to Tbilisi, Georgia, to participate in an advanced information …

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Armenian judicial system reform in focus on study trip

To highlight best practices and build their international professional network, the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan sent five Armenian judges to the U.S. in April 2017 for an Open World Exchange Program study tour. The group of judges made stops in Washington, D.C., and Shreveport, LA. The state of Louisiana was chosen because of its unique …

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Prosecutors, investigators receive international anti-corruption training

The U.S. Embassy in Yerevan’s International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Office (INL) sponsored four staff from Armenia’s Office of the Prosecutor General and one member of the Special Investigative Service to attend an anti-corruption training conference organized by the Central and Eastern European Law Initiative (CEELI) Institute in April 2017. CEELI provided a comprehensive five-day …

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Peace Corps Celebrates the Swearing-In of 42 New Volunteers and the Program’s 25th Anniversary in Armenia

Today, the U.S. Ambassador to Armenia, Mr. Richard Mills, swore-in 42 new Peace Corps Volunteers, who will depart to communities across Armenia where they will serve for the next two years with local schools, universities, and non-governmental organizations, as English Teachers and Community and Youth Development Volunteers. The volunteers are American citizens, who come from …

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Embassy hosts alumni from Women in Policing conferences

Over the past five years, more than 60 women from the Armenian police and the Investigative Committee have participated in the annual Women in Policing (WIP) Conference in Georgia with the support of the U.S. Embassy’s International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Office (INL). The conference empowers, inspires, and educates female police officers and law enforcement …

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Embassy helps train investigators on cases involving minors

The U.S. Embassy’s International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Office (INL) funded a six-week training session for Armenian law enforcement focused on best practices in investigations for cases involving minors, from March-May 2017 for investigators of the Investigative Committee (IC). Through the training, 21 investigators have become experts on juvenile rights and crimes issues unique to …

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U.S. Embassy brings U.S. and Armenian companies together to develop renewable energy

The future of energy is renewable. And it is a future that Armenia can take advantage of, for its pocketbook today and for future generations as well. That was the message of a day-long conference organized by the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan, in partnership with the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources and the firm …

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U.S. Ambassador meets with Muskie Exchange Program alumni

Saying he was humbled to join such a distinguished group of active Armenians, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Richard Mills, Jr., welcomed to the Embassy in Yerevan some of the 450 Armenian alumni of the U.S. State Department’s Edmund S. Muskie Graduate Fellowship Program. “When you look around the atrium it is a wonderful site to …

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U.S. Embassy Green Team helps clean up Kharberd Orphanage

Life is a little brighter at the Kharberd orphanage thanks to work done by the staff of the U.S. Embassy and members of the International Center for Agribusiness Research and Education (ICARE) and the Center for Agribusiness and Rural Development (CARD) who came together on May 13, 2017, to clean up the orphanage’s garden and …

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We want you to study in the U.S. – Op-Ed by U.S. Ambassador

This is the time of year when students all over the world, including here in Armenia, start making decisions and taking concrete steps that will have an enormous impact on their future.  Undergraduate students may be wondering whether to pursue an advanced degree or enter the job market, while high school students are considering their …

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Statement by the President on Armenian Remembrance Day 2017

Today, we remember and honor the memory of those who suffered during the Meds Yeghern, one of the worst mass atrocities of the 20th century.  Beginning in 1915, one and a half million Armenians were deported, massacred, or marched to their deaths in the final years of the Ottoman Empire.  I join the Armenian community …

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American Corners in Armenia celebrate National Library Week with reading marathon

On April 18, the five American Corners in Armenia – in Yerevan, Gyumri, Vanadzor, Charentsavan, and Kapan – celebrated Armenia’s National Library Week by organizing a reading marathon of Mark Twain’s classic novel “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” with participants from throughout the country. Dozens of community leaders, literary figures, library patrons, and students joined …

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U.S. Ambassador Highlights Role Women Play in Armenia’s Development During Trip to Gegharqunik

Yerevan, Armenia – To highlight the role women can and should play in the development of Armenia’s rural regions, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Richard Mills, Jr. traveled to Gegharqunik on March 30 and met with female farmers, civic activists and civil society leaders – all beneficiaries and partners of USAID development efforts. USAID promotes rural …

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U.S. Ambassador Mills Meets with women From Armenia’s IT Industry, Highlights Economic Benefits of Women’s Empowerment

Yerevan, Armenia – Increased female employment offers great potential to Armenia’s economy. Currently, women constitute 67 percent of Armenia’s economically non-active population and their unemployment rate is almost double that of male unemployment (51.5 percent female vs. 21.8 percent male).  According to World Bank estimates, Armenia loses as much as 14 percent of its potential …

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Joint Statement on Upcoming Election

Over the past year, the European Union, the United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom have offered significant financial and technical support to Armenia’s voting process, including providing equipment to facilitate a free and fair parliamentary election on April 2. We are pleased with the latest tests of the voter authentication equipment developed for Sunday’s …

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U.S.-Supported “Unlimited Movement” Project Showcases Inclusion of Individuals with Disabilities

Over the past year, the “Unlimited Movement” project sought to demonstrate what can be achieved through the power of social inclusion by using dance, performance, and film. The three-pronged program began with a flashmob of professional and amateur dancers, some of whom had disabilities, on the steps of the Cafesjian Center for the Arts in …

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U.S. Embassy Highlights Power of Filmmaking with “Mosaic of Human Stories” American Film Showcase

When the lights go down and a film flickers to life on the movie theater screen, we are quickly transported to a different time and place. Through film we can hear others’ stories and walk in their footsteps. Highlighting the transformative power of movies and filmmaking, the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan opened its “Mosaic of …

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Ambassador Richard Mills Remarks to American Chamber of Commerce

01As prepared Yerevan February 1, 2017 Dear Ministers and Deputy Ministers, dear President of the American Chamber of Commerce in Armenia and Members of the AmCham Board of Directors, dear distinguished guests, thank you for joining me tonight.  It is becoming a very pleasant tradition for me to deliver policy speeches before the AmCham, a …

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#BridgingStories Exhibit Connects Armenian and Turkish Photographers through Shared Stories

A new photo exhibit highlighting work created by Armenian and Turkish photographers during a five-month-long collaborative project opened on January 24, 2017, at the NPAK/ACCEA (the Armenian Center for Contemporary Experimental Art) in Yerevan. The exhibit features work from 24 young Armenian and Turkish photojournalists, who spent five months taking a remarkable set of photographs …

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U.S. Embassy Organizes a Dress Code Event through its Women’s Mentoring Program

Yerevan, Armenia – On January 22, 2017, the Havana Restaurant-Complex hosted a Dress Code event to help young Armenian women navigate the world of workplace fashion. The Dress Code event was organized within the framework of the year-long Women’s Mentoring Program sponsored by the U.S. Embassy, in partnership with the School of Political Science and …

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Ambassador Richard E. Hoagland will assume the position of U.S. Co-Chair of the OSCE Minsk Group

Ambassador Richard E. Hoagland will assume the position of U.S. Co-Chair of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Minsk Group on an interim basis starting in January 2017. He replaces Ambassador James B. Warlick, who will step down on December 31. Ambassador Hoagland brings over 30 years of diplomatic experience to the …

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The USAID Tax Reform Project Marks Completion, Leaves Behind a “Revolutionary Partnership”

Yerevan, Armenia – For the past four years USAID has been working with the Ministry of Finance to transform Armenia’s tax regulations and the administration of the tax code to ensure increased transparency. USAID’s Tax Reform Project, started in 2012 to help modernize Armenia’s tax collection infrastructure to offer better and more efficient services to …

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Opinion Piece by Ambassador Richard M. Mills, Jr. on the Occasion of International Human Rights Day

On this day in 1948, the UN General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a landmark document that spelled out for the first time those fundamental human rights that deserve  protection in every country, by every government. Despite the enormous progress that has been achieved in the 68 years since the declaration was …

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The U.S. Government supports Armenian Culture and Gyumri with Important Mural Restoration

On December 2, 2016, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Richard Mills, Jr. and Armenian Minister of Culture Armen Amiryan unveiled in Gyumri the newly restored mural “In the Mountains” created by famed Armenian artist Hakob Hakobyan.  The U.S. Ambassadors’ Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) funded the restoration of this mural. With the funding, the mural was …

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Statement on financial support for new voting processes

The U.S. Government welcomes the  agreement that was reached in June and September between the Armenian government and parliamentary political factions – with input from civil society representatives – on strengthening the integrity and credibility of the Armenian election process. We consider this agreement a meaningful step towards restoring public trust and accountability in Armenia’s …

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U.S. Embassy Brings U.S. & Armenian Companies Together to Make Mining Sustainable

On November 16, the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan, in partnership with the Ministry of Economic Development and Investments, the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, and HSBC Bank, organized a one-day sustainable mining business conference. The goal was to connect Armenian mine operators with well-known U.S. companies that offer products and services that ensure greater …

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IBM USAID and Armenian Partners Unveil New Tech Center

The Innovative Solutions and Technologies Center (ISTC), which has been supporting the development of Armenia’s IT sector since 2014, opened its new home on Thursday, November 10, welcoming its first guests to its new 1,000 square-meter state-of-the-art premises on the Yerevan State University Campus. The ISTC — a joint project of the Government of Armenia, …

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USAID Completes Successful Effort to Improve Social Protection System

Yerevan, Armenia – More than 700,000 Armenians have access to an improved social safety net thanks to the USAID-funded Pension Reform Implementation Program (PRIP), which marked the completion of its activities on November 9. The four-year program worked with the Government of Armenia and local partners to make the country’s social protection system more efficient, …

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U.S. Embassy Celebrates Presidential Election and 25 Years of U.S.-Armenian Relations

On the morning of November 9, a diverse group of government officials, politicians, civil society representatives, students, educators, and members of the press joined U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Richard Mills, Jr. for an Election Watch Party at the U.S. Embassy.  As the results of the U.S. presidential and congressional elections were broadcast live from the …

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U.S. Embassy Trains Armenian Financial Sector to Combat WMD Proliferation

On November 2 and 3, the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan hosted a two-day workshop that brought together Armenian government officials, representatives of Armenian banks, and U.S. government experts in order to raise awareness of financial sector controls that can help prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The workshop gave 39 representatives from Armenian …

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High-ranking U.S. Defense Department Official Visits Armenia

Dr. Michael Carpenter, U.S. deputy assistant secretary of defense, paid a working visit to Armenia on November 2, 2016. During the visit he met with President Serzh Sargsyan as well as Armenia’s newly-appointed Defense Minister Vigen Sargsyan. In addition to the meetings with top Armenian officials, he toured a number of programs highlighting U.S.-Armenian military …

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Armenia and Georgia Exchange Best Practices in Export Controls during Training Organized by U.S. Embassy

On October 18-19, the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan hosted a two-day workshop, bringing together Armenian and Georgian government officials and NGOs to exchange best practices in controlling the flow of weapons of mass destruction, delivery systems, and conventional weaponry. During the workshop, organized by the Embassy’s Export Control and Related Border Security Program (EXBS), policymakers …

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U.S. and Armenia continue cooperation to prevent proliferation of weapons of mass destruction

Armenia’s border guards are better trained to counter the illegal transport and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction thanks to border security and interdiction training provided by the U.S. The 10-day training session is the latest part of a joint U.S.-Armenian project to improve Armenia’s abilities in this fight against contraband. From October 10 to …

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2018 Diversity Visa “Green Card” Lottery

Yerevan, Armenia – The U.S. Department of State announces the opening of the registration period for the 2018 Diversity Visa (DV) lottery, also known as the “Green Card Lottery.” Entries for the 2018 Diversity Visa lottery must be submitted electronically between noon, Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (GMT-4), Tuesday, October 4, 2016, and noon, Eastern Standard …

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USG Investments Strengthen Public Health Laboratory Systems in Armenia

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), through its regional South Caucasus Office, conducted a four-day training workshop in laboratory management in Yerevan from September 26-29, 2016.  The workshop was attended by 27 Armenian laboratory directors, quality managers, and technical staff from the Ministries of Health and Agriculture. The purpose of the workshop …

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George C. Marshall Center of Security Studies Holds its Alumni Event in Yerevan

The George C. Marshall Center (GCMC) of Security Studies hosted an alumni outreach event in Yerevan, Armenia on September 29,  2016.  Thirty alumni and guests from multiple Armenian institutions attended the event which was led by GCMC staff. The event featured two distinguished GCMC alumni – Ms. Hayarpi Mkhitaryan from the Armenian National Security Council and …

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Statement by Secretary Kerry On the Occasion of Independence Day in Armenia

  Press Statement on Armenian Independence Day John Kerry Washington, DC September 19, 2016 On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I want to extend my congratulations to the people of Armenia as you celebrate the 25th anniversary of your nation’s independence on September 21. The United States deeply values its warm friendship with …

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AFCP Will Preserve Saint Sargis Church in Meghri

On September 16, 2016, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Richard M. Mills, Jr. and acting Minister of Culture Hasmik Poghosian jointly announced new funding from the U.S. Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation to restore and preserve St. Sargis Church in Meghri, a gem of Armenia’s cultural heritage. St. Sargis is an outstanding example of the unique …

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Armenia as a Study Abroad Destination for American Students

Armenia has much to offer to U.S. students interested in studying abroad, attendees of a two-day workshop held by American Councils heard on Tuesday. During the workshop, made possible by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of State’s recently-established U.S. Study Abroad office, speakers from American Councils and the U.S. Embassy emphasized that Armenia …

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U.S. Military Help Out at Medical Centers

There’s some extra helping hands at the Gavar and Hrazdan Medical Centers, as a group of U.S. medical professionals work side-by-side with their Armenian counterparts to save lives, ease pain, and treat illnesses. About 40 U.S. military medical professionals (doctors, nurses, EMTs, paramedics, and medical technicians) from the Kansas Air National Guard 184th Medical Group, …

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Statement from U.S. Embassy

The U.S. Embassy is deeply concerned by the shocking images and credible reports of violence and excessive use of force by the police to disperse protestors during the night of July 29-30. We are just as concerned by credible reports that journalists and their equipment were specifically targeted by the police during these operations, in …

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Water stewardship in Ararat Valley

Yerevan, Armenia – On July 20, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company Armenia (Coca-Cola HBC Armenia) and the Ministry of Nature Protection of the Republic of Armenia signed a Memorandum of Understanding, aimed at improving water stewardship across Armenia and particularly contributing to conservation, effective use and management of …

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New Regional Lab in Gyumri

The latest regional biohazard lab to be upgraded by the U.S. government opened in Gyumri on Thursday, July 14, 2016. The Gyumri laboratory was renovated by the U.S. and its Armenian government partners to help the nation track and secure dangerous pathogens more effectively. This effort strengthens Armenia’s disease tracking abilities allowing it to quickly …

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New National Center for Disease Control

Armenia is better prepared to monitor, track, investigate, and stop dangerous viruses, bioweapons, and disease thanks to a series of labs renovated and modernized by the United States. The latest, a new centralized national joint facility in Yerevan, was opened on Wednesday, July 13, 2016, by the Minister of Health Dr. Armen Muradyan, the Minister …

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Preventing Proliferation of WMD

Yerevan, Armenia – The United States Department of Defense, the National Security Service of Armenia (NSS), and the Armenian Border Guards held a ceremony on June 22, 2016, to mark the completion of a two-year, $9.35 million effort aimed at reducing the threat of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) by safeguarding Armenia’s northern border with …

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Countering Nuclear Smuggling

Today, representatives of the Government of the United States and of the Republic of Armenia conducted a scheduled review of the 2008 U.S.-Armenia Joint Action Plan on Combatting Smuggling of Nuclear and Radioactive Materials. Incidents of nuclear and radioactive material smuggling around the world highlight the need for coordinated international efforts to secure these dangerous …

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Press Statement by the Minsk Group

PARIS, 3 June 2016 – The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Ambassadors Igor Popov of the Russian Federation, James Warlick of the United States of America, and Pierre Andrieu of France) met with Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov in Brussels on 31 May and with Armenian Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian in Paris on 2 …

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“Water Ideathon” Contest in Armenia

Yerevan, Armenia – Armenia is a small and landlocked country, vulnerable to climate change due to its semi-arid climate characteristics. One of the largest users of Armenia’s precious water resources is also one of the nation’s most important sectors – agriculture. Forty percent of the country’s agricultural goods come from the Ararat Valley, which is …

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New Fulbright-Hovnanian Program

Thanks to a new partnership between the U.S. State Department and the Hirair and Anna Hovnanian Foundation, Armenian students will have even more opportunities each year to take part in the Fulbright Program, the largest U.S. exchange program offering opportunities for students and young professionals to undertake international graduate study, advanced research, and university teaching. …

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The Culture of ePublishing in Armenia

The “Sliding Pages: The Culture of ePublishing in Armenia” program was implemented by the Armenian eBooks Initiative. The program was funded by the U.S. Alumni Association of Armenia through its Alumni Outreach Grant Program. The goal of this project is to explain and promote the process of digitalization of books and electronic publishing to broader …

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U.S. and Armenian Businesses Look for Ways to Partner U.S.

Connecting U.S. businesses to the Armenian market is a win-win proposition. Businesses are always looking for investment opportunities, and bringing more companies to Armenia diversifies and strengthens the nation’s economy. To facilitate these new connections, the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan, the American Chamber of Commerce in Armenia, the Armenian Ministry of Economy, and Converse Bank, …

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Joint Statement of Lavrov, Kerry and Desir

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation Sergey Lavrov, Secretary of State of the United States of America John Kerry, and State Secretary for European Affairs of France Harlem Desir, representing the co-chair countries of the OSCE Minsk Group, met today with President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan and President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev …

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Statement by the OSCE Minsk Co-Chairs

Statement by the OSCE Minsk Co-ChairsVIENNA, 12 May 2016 – The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group, Ambassadors Igor Popov of the Russian Federation, James Warlick of the United States of America, and Pierre Andrieu of France, remain fully committed to mediating a lasting settlement to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. In light of the recent violence …

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Copyright Management in Armenia

On Wednesday, May 11, government policy experts, intellectual property attorneys, and private-sector specialists gathered for a forum hosted by the U.S. Embassy in Armenia to discuss collective copyright management in Armenia. The day-long session was organized to examine the role Collective Copyright Management Organizations (CMOs) play in the protection of intellectual property rights. CMOs are …

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Armenian Alumni from U.S. Exchange Programs Win U.S. Department of State Grant to Aid People with Disabilities

A team of Armenian alumni of U.S. Government-sponsored exchange programs were awarded a grant Tuesday through the U.S. State Department’s 2016 Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund competition. The Armenian team’s winning proposal, a project called “Unlimited Movement,” will address the challenges and the issues that people with disabilities face in society. More than 829 projects from …

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Statement by the President on Armenian Remembrance Day

Today we solemnly reflect on the first mass atrocity of the 20th century—the Armenian Meds Yeghern—when one and a half million Armenian people were deported, massacred, and marched to their deaths in the final days of the Ottoman empire. As we honor the memory of those who suffered during the dark days beginning in 1915—and …

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Yerevan American Corner celebrates life of Saroyan

To mark America’s National Library Week (which runs from April 10 to 16), the American Corner at the Yerevan Central Library held a William Saroyan Reading Marathon on Monday, April 11, during which dozens of participants continuously read out loud Saroyan’s novel “The Human Comedy.” U.S. diplomats, Yerevan city leaders, library officials, students, and library …

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U.S. Embassy and Armenian Ministry of Health Celebrate Opening of Tavush Regional Laboratory of National Center of Disease Control and Prevention

On Wednesday, April 6, 2016, the U.S. Ambassador to Armenia, Richard M. Mills, Jr., and the Minister of Health of the Republic of Armenia, Dr. Armen Muradyan, attended the opening ceremony for the Ministry of Health’s Tavush regional laboratory for the National Center for Disease Control and Prevention.  Mr. Lance Brooks from the U.S. Department …

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Statement by the Minsk Group

We, the representatives of the OSCE Minsk Group countries (Russian Federation, the United States of America, France, Belarus, Finland, Germany, Italy, Sweden, Turkey),  as well as the incoming Austrian OSCE Chair (2017) and the Serbian OSCE Chair (2015), strongly condemn the outbreak of unprecedented violence along the Line of Contact.  We extend our condolences to …

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Statement by Secretary Kerry – United States Condemns Ceasefire Violations Along Nagorno-Karabakh Line of Contact

The United States condemns in the strongest terms the large-scale ceasefire violations along the Nagorno-Karabakh Line of Contact, which have resulted in a number of reported casualties, including civilians. We extend our condolences to all affected families. We urge the sides to show restraint, avoid further escalation, and strictly adhere to the ceasefire. The unstable …

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Press Release by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group

The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Ambassadors Igor Popov of the Russian Federation, James Warlick of the United States of America, and Pierre Andrieu of France) express grave concern over the reported large-scale ceasefire violations that are taking place along the Line of Contact in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone. We strongly condemn the use …

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President Sargsyan meets VP Biden

Vice President Biden met today with President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan on the margins of the Nuclear Security Summit. The Vice President stressed that the United States is committed to a democratic, prosperous, and secure Armenia at peace with its neighbors. The Vice President thanked President Sargsyan for welcoming more than 20,000 Syrian refugees. Addressing …

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U.S. Embassy’s Fourth Annual Women’s Mentoring Program Launched in AUA

On March 30, Leigh Carter, wife of U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Richard M. Mills, kicked off the U.S. Embassy’s fourth annual Women’s Mentoring Program with a press conference held at the American University in Armenia (AUA). The 2016-2017 mentoring program, which is organized in partnership with AUA PSIA (Political Science and International Affairs) Program and …

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World Wildlife Day: The Future of Wildlife is in Our Hands

World Wildlife Day, which is celebrated annually on March 3, is dedicated to celebrating and raising awareness about the world’s wild fauna and flora, and to recognizing the important role played by CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of World Fauna and Flora) in protecting wildlife for this and future generations. The …

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U.S. Embassy presents the Armenian edition of How to Change the World: Social Entrepreneurs and the Power of New Ideas by David Bornstein

On February 19, the U.S. Embassy in Armenia officially presented the Armenian edition of the How to Change the World: Social Entrepreneurs and the Power of New Ideas by David Bornstein at the Yerevan American Corner. The U.S. Embassy partnered with Antares Media Holding for the translation and publication of the Armenian edition of this …

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USAID Launches New Project to Address Groundwater Resource Challenge in Ararat Valley

During a public event on February 10, USAID announced the launch of the Advanced Science and Partnerships for Integrated Resource Development Project (ASPIRED) – a three-year initiative designed to curb the rate of groundwater abstraction in the Ararat Valley to sustainable levels. USAID Armenia Mission Director Karen Hilliard, Deputy Minister of Nature Protection Simon Papyan, …

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Nasdaq OMX Armenia Announces the Listing of the First UCO Securitized Bonds in Armenia

During an official ceremony on January 27, NASDAQ OMX Armenia marked the successful launch of the first securitized bond issuance in Armenia and announced the listing of these bonds at the stock exchange for the secondary market trade. This landmark transaction was made possible through the joint efforts of USAID, Capital Investments, and universal credit …

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United States Begins Implementation of Changes to the Visa Waiver Program

The United States today began implementing changes under the Visa Waiver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015 (the Act). U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) welcomes more than a million passengers arriving to the United States every day and is committed to facilitating legitimate travel while maintaining the highest standards of security …

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U.S. Embassy Statement on Resignation of Karen Andreasyan

We note with regret Karen Andreasyan’s decision to step down as Armenia’s Human Rights Ombudsman.  He has been a tireless and effective champion for those who were defenseless; those who feared their voices might be silenced if they voiced unpopular messages;  and any Armenian who fought for his or her rights as a citizen to …

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U.S. National Security Council Senior Director for Europe Meets President Sargsyan and other Senior Armenian officials

Special Assistant to the President and National Security Council Senior Director for Europe Dr. Charles Kupchan visited Armenia January 14. During his visit, he met with President Serzh Sargsyan, Foreign Minister Eduard Nalbandyan, Deputy Prime Minister Vache Gabrielyan, and Head of the Presidential Administration Vigen Sargsyan, as well as National Assembly deputies and civil society representatives. Discussions focused on ways the Republic of …

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U.S. Embassy’s Additional Statement on Armenian Referendum

The U.S. Embassy continues to monitor the recount proceedings of the constitutional referendum held on December 6.  We have previously noted our serious concern about credible allegations of irregularities in the referendum reported by non-partisan observers and various Armenian political parties. We welcome the public commitment of Armenian Government officials, including the Prosecutor General and …

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U.S. Embassy Statement on Constitutional Referendum

We commend the Armenian people and the government on the peaceful conduct of the constitutional referendum on Sunday, December 6, which took place after an open debate. The change in the form of Armenia’s government that will result from the new constitution is significant. The credible allegations of electoral irregularities reported by both non-partisan observers …

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U.S. Embassy hosts “One Health” master class workshop for Armenian medical, scientific experts

Coming together, we are stronger. That was the message during a One Health master class, organized by the U.S. government and held in Yerevan on December 1 and 2, 2015. The two-day workshop, hosted by experts from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA), brought together …

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U.S. Ambassador opens school renovation thanks to American military support

A number of disadvantaged young Armenians in Gyumri now have better living conditions, thanks to efforts financed by the U.S. government. On November 25, 2015, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Richard Mills, Jr., opened the newly renovated Gyumri Child Care and Protection Boarding School #1. The undertaking was funded with $360,000 provided by the U.S. Embassy’s …

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Ambassador visits cutting-edge fruit drying program

Continuing his month-long focus on Embassy initiatives to boost economic development in Armenia’s rural areas, U.S. Ambassador Richard Mills, Jr., on Tuesday visited the site of a cutting-edge solar fruit drying facility that was started with support from the U.S. Embassy. The Ambassador toured the facility and met with some of the village residents who …

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USAID Launches Partnership with Smithsonian to Support Cultural Heritage Tourism in Armenia

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Smithsonian Institution have partnered for an innovative project to support cultural sustainability through cultural tourism in Armenia. The project was launched on November 20 at an official ceremony at the Matenadaran Scientific Research Institute of Ancient Manuscripts in Yerevan, which holds one of the world’s …

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U.S. Embassy and COAF Continue Expansion of English Language Courses Throughout Armenia

The U.S. Embassy in Yerevan and the Children of Armenia Fund (COAF) announced today the continued expansion of two English language training programs sponsored by the Embassy and co-funded and operated by COAF. The courses will be offered specifically in several of Armenia’s rural regions. By continuing and expanding these two programs – the “English …

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Ambassador Mills Unveils Armenian Cultural Preservation Projects in Gyumri and Dashtadem Funded by U.S. State Department

From artistic renderings of the splendor of the Armenian countryside to the stark beauty of ancient fortresses, heritage sites and cultural treasures hold deep meaning for the Armenian people. On November 9, 2015, U.S. Ambassador to Armenian Richard Mills, Jr. had the opportunity to visit important pieces of Armenian cultural heritage in Gyumri and Dashtadem, …

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U.S. Embassy Launches Month-Long Focus on Agriculture and Rural Development with Opening of Farm and Veterinary Service Center in Vardenis (Gegharkuni

Surrounded by farmers, veterinarians, and others working with the agricultural sector of Vardenis, and in the company of the Minister of Agriculture, Sergo Karapetyan, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Richard Mills, Jr. kicked off a month-long focus by the U.S. Embassy on agriculture and rural development with the opening of the latest Farm and Veterinary Service …

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US Ambassador Meets with PINK NGO Representatives, Expresses Concern about Threats of Violence Issued against Them

U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Richard Mills, Jr., visited the offices of the Public Information and Need of Knowledge (PINK) NGO on Thursday, October 29, 2015. The group briefed the Ambassador on their recent Rainbow Forum, a gathering organized by PINK earlier this month in Lori, which focused on ways to protect the basic human rights …

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U.S. Embassy Provides $132,000 in Equipment to Investigative Committee

On October 20, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Richard M. Mills, Jr., met with the Chairman of Armenia’s Investigative Committee, Aghvan Hovsepyan, to mark the Embassy’s donation of technical equipment and computer software valued at $132,000. The donation, which includes 72 scanners, 4 computers, 4 CISCO network routers, and 70 licenses of Adobe Acrobat Pro, will …

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U.S. Department of Commerce and Customs Service of Republic of Armenia Continue Strong Collaboration with a Third Workshop on Customs Procedures

Starting Tuesday, October 20, 2015, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Commercial Law Development Program (CLDP), and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), in cooperation with the Customs Service of the Republic of Armenia, will hold the third in a series of workshops on Customs Valuation, Classification, and Customs Procedures. Participants in the three-day-long workshop …

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U.S. Defense Cooperation Office Renovates Kharberd Orphanage

On October 13th, MAJ John Friel Chief of the U.S. Embassy Office of Defense Cooperation joined Ms. Jemma Baghdasaryan Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Affairs, Mr. Harutyun Balasanyan Director of the Kharberd Orphanage and local community members, to conduct a ribbon cutting ceremony in honor of the renovation of the Kharberd Specialized Orphanage for …

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U.S. Embassy Hosted Delegation Focused on Clean Energy Sector Development

The U.S. Embassy in Yerevan hosted a delegation of academics and policy experts, who specialize in clean energy development. The group of subject-matter experts, a Partnership Opportunity Delegation organized by the State Department’s Office of Global Partnerships, was in Armenia for a three-day exploratory session where they discussed issues around Armenia’s renewable energy and energy …

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Thriving Goat and Dairy Operations Showcase Benefits of U.S. Commitment to Boosting the Armenian Agricultural Sector

On November 5, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Richard Mills, Jr., accompanied by Armenian Deputy Minister of Agriculture Armen Harutyunyan, visited a number of agricultural operations in Vayots Dzor that are thriving with U.S. support.  This visit was organized within the framework of the month-long focus on agriculture and rural development launched by the Embassy last …

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U.S. Department of State Announces Opening of the Registration Period for the DV-2017 Diversity Visa Lottery

The U.S. Department of State announces the opening of the registration period for the 2017 Diversity Visa (DV) lottery, also known as the greencard lottery. Entries for the 2017 Diversity Visa lottery must be submitted electronically between noon, Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (GMT-4), Wednesday, October 1, 2015, and noon, Eastern Standard Time (EST) (GMT-5), Monday, …

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American and Armenian law enforcement agencies meet to combat drug trafficking

On September 23 and 24, 2015, in Tsaghkadzor, the U.S. Embassy, the U.S. Department of Justice, and the U.S. European Command held the first of three annual conferences designed to strengthen the capabilities of law enforcement agencies to actively and effectively investigate and prosecute drug-trafficking organizations who seek to exploit Armenia’s borders, in order to …

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U.S. Embassy’s Franchise Day Connects American Businesses with Armenian Investors

The U.S. Embassy in Yerevan and the U.S. Commercial Service in Moscow, in partnership with Ameria Management Advisory Services, organized a one-day business conference focused on franchise business opportunities on September 22 in Yerevan. The event helped strengthen the growing commercial ties between the United States and Armenia by introducing American franchise businesses that are …

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Ambassador Richard Mills Remarks at the opening reception for The “America on the Road” cultural tour

I want to thank you all for coming tonight and warmly welcome you to my house this evening as we launch our “America on the Road 2015” cultural tour. Arvest ev mshakuyt  – slowly but surely I’m working on my Armenian and these two words – art and culture – are very important, indeed key …

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U.S. delivers equipment to protect Armenia from pathogens

On Wednesday, September 9, 2015, U.S. Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Clark Price attended a ceremony highlighting the recent transfer of a vehicle and equipment from the U.S. Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) to the Mobile Outbreak Response Unit of the Armenian Ministry of Territorial Administration and Emergency Situations (MTAES). The equipment is part of …

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Armenian Military Medics Trained by U.S. Peers

On August 28th, U.S. Ambassador Richard M. Mills, Jr. and Armenian Minister of Defense Seyran Ohanyan attended the graduation ceremony for 12 trainers of military medics of the Armenian Army who are the first graduates of an innovative medical training course taught by members of the U.S. military. For the past three months, six U.S. …

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Ambassador Attends Meeting of Armenian and Turkish Cross-Border Tour Operators

Highlighting the economic importance of the tourism sector and the value of cross-border cooperation, U.S. Ambassador Richard M. Mills, Jr. joined members of the Turkish-Armenian Tour Operators Network (TATON) during a meeting in Yerevan on Wednesday, August 26, 2015. TATON developed as a result of USAID’s “Bridges” project, an effort to develop economic activity on …

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U.S. Ambassador and Deputy Minister of Finance Visit IT Infrastructure Development and Implementation Department of the Armenian Ministry of Finance

On August 19, U.S. Ambassador Richard M. Mills, Jr. visited the IT Infrastructure Development and Implementation Department of the Armenian Ministry of Finance in the company of Deputy Minister Vakhtang Mirumyan. The Ministry has recently procured up-to-date hardware and software for its data center in Zeytun as part of USAID’s technical assistance to the Government …

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U.S. Ambassador and Prime Minister Visit Lydian Mining Site

On August 15, U.S. Ambassador Richard M. Mills, Jr. visited Lydian International’s Amulsar project site in the company of Prime Minister Hovik Abrahamyan and the Minister of Energy, Yervand Zakharyan. The Amulsar project is the largest international investment in Armenia, with a bulk of institutional investors from the United States.  The Ambassador, Prime Minister, and …

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U.S. Embassy Statement regarding the False Bomb Threat

Earlier today, at approximately 12:50pm, the U.S. Embassy was notified by the Armenian Police that they had received a call-in bomb threat targeting the Embassy.  The Armenian Police, NSS, and Emergency Services quickly arrived on the scene to ensure there was no threat to the Embassy. Based on subsequent information and coordination with the police, …

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Kansas National Guard Humanitarian Civic Assistance Appreciation Ceremony

On August 13, U.S. Ambassador Richard M. Mills, Jr. visited the Yerevan Emergency Operations Center to attend the Appreciation Ceremony for the humanitarian civic assistance projects implemented by the Kansas National Guard. In addition to renovating the Emergency Operations Center, Kansas Air and Army National Guard engineers also completed renovations to Ashtarak hospital and Yerevan …

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The Southern Basin Management Plan – A Path to Integrated Resource Management

On August 7, the USAID Clean Energy and Water Program presented the draft Southern Basin Management Plan to key stakeholders in the Government of Armenia, the National Assembly, science and academic institutions, the private sector, NGOs, and international organizations involved in natural resources management and protection in Armenia. The draft document, developed in close collaboration …

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Farm Service Center Opened in Poqr Vedi

The Center for Agribusiness and Rural Development (CARD) Foundation has established a Farm Service Center in the Poqr Vedi community in Ararat province, within the framework of the USAID-funded Partnerships for Rural Prosperity (PRP) program. The specialized center will focus on the development of the horticultural (garden cultivation and management) sector in Armenia and will …

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U.S. Embassy Makes Additional Visa Appointments to Armenia Citizens Available on Saturday, August 15

In order to accommodate the high demand for travel to the United States by Armenians this summer, the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan will be open on Saturday, August 15 to provide additional visa interviews and processing for Armenian citizens.  We urge Armenian business, tourist, and student visa applicants to visit http://am.usembassy.gov/visas to take advantage of these …

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U.S. Embassy Hosts Conference on Issues Related to the Protection of Children

On July 29, 2015, the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan hosted a conference on the international aspects of parental child abduction, adoption under the Hague Convention, and the sexual exploitation of children, with the participation of Armenian judges, prosecutors, investigators, advocates, members of the National Assembly, and non-governmental organizations.  The purpose of the conference was to …

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Armenia’s International Community to Honour Rights Advocates

The U.S. Embassy, Delegation of the European Union to Armenia, British Embassy, OSCE Office in Yerevan, Council of Europe Office in Yerevan and the United Nations Armenia Office honoured individuals working to promote human rights, accountable governance, local government reform, and free speech in Armenia at the Universal Rights Awards Ceremony at the Congress Hotel …

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Social Inclusion is Good for Armenia’s Economy: Ambassador Mills in Gyumri

U.S. Ambassador Richard Mills discussed the economic and business conditions in Gyumri with local officials and business people during his first visit to the city. He also visited several U.S. Government supported activities underway in Gyumri; such as the Lentex Factory, which employees 17 persons with disabilities, and the Gyumri American Corner, where he marked …

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U.S. Ambassador Marks International Day Against Homophobia

In recognition of the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia on May 17, U.S. Ambassador Richard M. Mills, Jr. met with Armenian civil society representatives who advocate for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) rights in Armenia.  During their meeting, the Ambassador heard from the civil society representatives about their work to ensure that …

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U.S. Embassy sponsors “I Know: Army and Law” Education Game on the “Dasaran.am” platform

The U.S. Embassy announces the release of the “I Know: Army and Law” online game developed in partnership with Dasaran.am.  Funded by the U.S. Embassy’s Democracy Commission Small Grants program, this online game is designed for Armenian secondary school students and all other interested citizens. The educational game will help everyone better understand their rights …

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Farm Service Center Opened in Norapat

The Center for Agribusiness and Rural Development (CARD) Foundation has established a Farm Service Center in Norapat community of Armavir province, within the framework of the USAID-funded Partnerships for Rural Prosperity (PRP) program. The specialized center will focus on the development of the horticulture (garden cultivation and management) sector in Armenia and will promote advanced …

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National Poetry Recitation Contest

YEREVAN, ARMENIA: The 5th Annual National Poetry Recitation Contest organized by Peace Corps Volunteers from the United States and AELTA will take place Sunday, May 10th, from 12:00 to 15:00 p.m. at the American University of Armenia. Jacqueline Deley, Public Affairs Officer at the US Embassy opened the event. The National Poetry Contest was first …

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United States and Armenia Sign Trade and Investment Framework Agreement

Assistant United States Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle East L. Daniel Mullaney and Armenian Minister of Foreign Affairs Edward Nalbandian today signed the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Republic of Armenia.  This agreement establishes a United States-Armenia Council on …

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U.S. Ambassador Mills Marks World Intellectual Property Day at the Microsoft Innovation Center

The U.S. Ambassador to Armenia, Richard M. Mills, Jr., visited the Microsoft Innovation Center to highlight World Intellectual Property Day, a day celebrated annually to mark the founding of the World Intellectual Property Organization, otherwise known as WIPO, in 1970. In addition to touring the center and the Armenian National Engineering Lab (ANEL), the Ambassador …

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Narcotics Investigators Course

This week (May 4- 8) trainers from the International Training Section of the U.S. Department of Justice Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) are conducting a “Narcotics Investigators Course” for officers from Armenian Police, National Security Service and the Investigative Committee.  The training includes topics such as interview and interrogation techniques, informant handling, undercover operations, surveillance operations, …

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Death of Harry Gilmore

The U.S. Embassy announces with sadness that Harry J. Gilmore, the first U.S. Ambassador to Armenia, passed away last week at the age of 77. Ambassador Gilmore served in Armenia from May 1993 to July 1995 . In his 35 years in the U.S. Foreign Service, the Ambassador also served in Berlin, Belgrade, Munich, Budapest, …

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Statement by the President on Armenian Remembrance Day

This year we mark the centennial of the Meds Yeghern, the first mass atrocity of the 20th Century.  Beginning in 1915, the Armenian people of the Ottoman Empire were deported, massacred, and marched to their deaths.  Their culture and heritage in their ancient homeland were erased. Amid horrific violence that saw suffering on all sides, …

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President Obama Announces Presidential Delegation to the Republic of Armenia to Attend the Centennial Commemoration of the Events of 1915

President Barack Obama today announced the designation of a Presidential Delegation to the Republic of Armenia to attend the Centennial Commemoration of the Events of 1915 on April 24, 2015. The Honorable Jacob J. Lew, Secretary of the Department of Treasury, will lead the delegation. Members of the Presidential Delegation: The Honorable Richard M. Mills, …

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Update on U.S Government Assistance

The U.S. Embassy would like to announce some anticipated changes to its assistance budget for FY2015, which would take effect October 2015. The assistance budget of the United States is a reflection of our ongoing and emerging national security challenges, President Obama’s signature policy and development initiatives, our security commitments to allies and partners, and …

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EXBS Sponsors Nonproliferation Training for Armenian Partners

From March 23 to April 03, 2015 four Armenian representatives attended a two-week nonproliferation training class at the University of Georgia’s Security and Strategic Trade Management Academy. The training provided officials from over 10 countries a forum to design regulations and establish institutional procedures for their government and industry to safeguard their dual-use technology and …

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Armenian Troops Depart for Training in Europe

On April 3, Ambassador Mills joined Armenian members of the Armenian Peace Keeping Brigade at Zvartnots Airport to send off 36 Armenian peacekeepers to participate in Saber Junction 15, a USAREUR-led Decisive Action Training Environment exercise designed to train a brigade-level unit to operate with allied and partner nations as part of a combined force. …

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Read the New York Times best -selling novel Wonder, now in Armenian and available for free!

The U.S. embassy has been involved in a project together with Project Harmony, conducting a teacher training workshop that will help create a conversation with Armenian youth about social inclusion and disabilities. Fifty teachers are participating in the workshops, which incorporate lesson plans based on book. Wonder is about a boy with a severe facial …

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USAID Wraps up the Visit of Agency Leader for Europe and Eurasia to Armenia

USAID Acting Assistant Administrator for Europe and Eurasia Susan Kosinski Fritz paid a five-day working visit to Armenia from February 21 through 25. She visited several USAID project sites and met with the leadership of the Armenian government, representatives of civil society and the tourism sector, and with several partner organizations. Ms. Fritz oversees USAID’s …

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Visit of Assistant Secretary of State Victoria Nuland to Armenia

On February 18, Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Victoria Nuland led a joint civilian-military delegation to Yerevan, Armenia to meet with senior Armenian government officials and civil society representatives to discuss a broad range of bilateral and regional issues. She also visited the 1915 Memorial at Tsitsernakaberd, which she described as …

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Ambassador Richard M Mills Jr. met with His Holiness Karekin II

On February 24, U.S. Ambassador Richard M Mills Jr. met with His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians in Etchmiadzin. Touching upon Armenia-US relations, the Catholicos of All Armenians particularly expressed gratitude to the American people and the U.S. government for their assistance and expressed his appreciation of the United States’ …

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DTRA Sponsors Project to Strengthen Armenia’s Laboratory Network

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency’s Cooperative Biological Engagement Program (CBEP) organized a kick-off meeting for the “Strengthening Armenian Laboratory Network for disease detection, disease surveillance and updating IHR requirements” project. The four-day meeting, involving representatives from the Armenian Ministries of Health and Agriculture, was held at the American University of Armenia in Yerevan from 10-13 …

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Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs Victoria Nuland Travel to Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia

On February 16, Assistant Secretary Nuland will travel to Baku, Azerbaijan, to meet with senior government officials to work to strengthen bilateral relations on trade and investment, energy diversification, security and counter-terrorism, and democracy and civil society, as well as toward advancing a just and lasting settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. She will also meet …

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DTRA Sponsors Regional ASF Public Outreach Project

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency’s Cooperative Biological Engagement Program (CBEP) held a kick off workshop for its regional collaborative project entitled “African Swine Fever (ASF) Regional Public Outreach.”   The three-day workshop was held in the Hyatt Yerevan Hotel on February 3-5, 2015.  Representatives from Armenia, Georgia, Kazakhstan and Ukraine were in attendance, as were veterinary …

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U.S. Embassy launches “It’s a Wonder-ful Life” project

The U.S. Embassy in Armenia is delighted to partner with the Project Harmony International (PHI) on a project designed to generate a conversation about social inclusion and disabilities with Armenian youth. Our “It’s a Wonder-ful Life” project centers around the New York Times best-selling novel Wonder, a touching and thought-provoking book about a boy with …

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U.S. and Armenia reach reciprocal visa arrangement

Effective January 1, 2015, the United States will begin issuing visas in accordance with a new reciprocal arrangement with the Republic of Armenia. Armenian applicants who qualify for a B-category nonimmigrant visa (NIV) may be issued multiple-entry visas for up to 10 years for business and tourist travel to the U.S. Qualified Armenian students and …

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Transcaucasia Resiliency Exercise held in Tbilisi

From December 2 – 5, Armenian representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Emergency Services and the National Security Service participated in the Transcaucasia Resiliency Exercise (TREX) held in Tbilisi, Georgia under the sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Defense’s Defense Threat Reduction Agency. The Georgian government hosted the …

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DTRA Sponsors Bio Safety and Security Workshop

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency’s Cooperative Biological Engagement Program (CBEP) held a Biosecurity workshop on December 8, 2014 in Yerevan, Armenia. Representatives from the Armenian National Security Service, Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Health, and Ministry of Territorial Administration and Emergency Situations collaborated to generate requirements to mitigate threats to the animal and human health …

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New penitentiary opens in Armenia to serve special inmates

A new correctional facility conforming to European standards was officially launched in Armavir on Saturday as part of the Government’s efforts to reform the corrections system and reduce overcrowding in prisons. The official opening ceremony was attended by President Serzh Sargsyan, Minister of Justice Hovhannes Manukyan, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia John Heffern and official delegation …

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NATO Week Armenia 2014; Handover reception

U.S. Ambassador in Armenia John Heffern hosted a reception in honor of NATO Week in Armenia (November 10-14). NATO Week is an initiative organized by NATO Ally embassies in Armenia, in close partnership with the Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Defense. The theme this year is women, peace and security, and interoperability. …

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Fellowship for Leaders in NGOs

The U.S. Embassy announces a competitive fellowship for nonprofit/NGO leaders from Armenia to apply for a paid, prestigious fellowship in the U.S. for one year of leadership development through Atlas Corps.  Atlas Corps is seeking nonprofit leaders with 2-10 years of experience, a college degree and English proficiency to apply for the Atlas Corps Fellowship. …

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U.S. Embassy hosts Renowned American Writers

On October 21-23, the U.S. Embassy, in partnership with the Armenian Literature Foundation, will host American writers from the International Writing Program (IWP) at the University of Iowa, USA. Guests include renowned American writers – Peter Balakian, Gish Jen, Gregory Orfalea, Mary Hickman, and Christopher Merrill. The goal of the program is to engage young …

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Statement by NSC Spokesperson Bernadette Meehan on of the Display of the Ghazir Rug in the White House Visitor Center

On November 18-23, the White House Visitor Center will show an exhibit entitled: “Thank you to the United States: Three Gifts to Presidents in Gratitude for American Generosity Abroad.” Among those gifts displayed will be the Ghazir Rug.  The rug, also known as the “Armenian Orphan Rug,” was presented to President Coolidge in 1925 in recognition …

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U.S. Department of State Announces Opening of the Registration Period for the DV-2016 Diversity Visa Lottery

The U.S. Department of State announces the opening of the registration period for the DV-2016 Diversity Visa lottery. Entries for the DV-2016 Diversity Visa lottery must be submitted electronically between noon, Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (GMT-4), Wednesday, October 1, 2014, and noon, Eastern Standard  Time (EST) (GMT-5), Monday, November 3, 2014. Applicants may access the …

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Office of Defense Cooperation hosts graduates of IMET program

On the evening of 30 September, in the US Embassy’s atrium, the Ambassador and the Office of Defense Cooperation (ODC) hosted a reception for graduates of the ODC’s International Military Education and Training (IMET) program. The IMET program has spent nearly 8 million dollars to train 189 officers, sergeants, and civilians in the United States …

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U.S. Embassy Statement on the Destruction of the Armenian Church in Syria

U.S. Embassy Yerevan joins the government and people of Armenia in strongly condemning the destruction of the Armenian Church in Deir Ez-zor, Syria. This senseless act of destruction demonstrates yet again the utter disregard the terrorist organization ISIL has for the rich religious and cultural heritage of the Middle East. As Secretary Kerry has stated, …

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Regional Conference on International Drug Trafficking

Following the seizures of significant quantities of heroin at the Armenian-Iranian and Georgian-Azerbaijani borders earlier this year, the United States – in cooperation with Armenia and Georgia – organized two regional conferences on drug trafficking.  The first conference took place in Yerevan on September 11-12 and the second in Tbilisi, on September 15-16.    The purpose …

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Statement of Richard Mills Ambassador-Designate to Armenia Before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee

Thank you, Mr. Chairman, Ranking Member Johnson, and distinguished members of the committee. Twenty-three years ago, I served as the Department of State’s first desk officer for newly independent Armenia, so it is a particular honor for me to be before you today as President Obama’s nominee to serve as the next Ambassador to the …

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U.S. and Armenia Sign Justice Sector Assistance Agreement

On September 9, 2014, Ambassador John Heffern and Minister of Justice Hovhannes Manukyan signed an amendment to the Letter of Agreement on Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement between the governments of the United States and Armenia.  This is the sixteenth amendment to the original Letter of Agreement signed in 2001, underwriting more than USD 2.3 …

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Secretary Kerry’s Trilateral Meeting with Presidents of Armenia and Azerbaijan in Wales

Today Secretary Kerry met with President of Armenia Serzh Sargsian and President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev at the NATO Summit in Newport, Wales to discuss efforts to resolve the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh. He expressed his strong concern for the recent violence along the Line of Contact, marking the deadliest period in the conflict since the …

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Some U.S. Visa and Consular Processing Fees to Change on September 12, 2014

Effective September 12, 2014 some non-immigrant and immigrant visa application fees for certain categories will change. Please note that there will be no change in visitor (Business, Tourism, and Medical Treatment), student, or exchange visitor visa fees.  They are and will remain $160 per applicant. The visa types that will be affected by this change …

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Ready to Graduate – Moving Forward with Economic Development

August 2014 marks an important milestone in U.S. development efforts in Armenia, as one of the most successful programs that has provided humanitarian assistance to Armenia since 1992 is reaching its successful conclusion. For the past 22 years, the U.S. Department of State has provided humanitarian assistance in Armenia and throughout the former Soviet Union.  …

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Ambassador Heffern met with some members of the Armenian Yezidi community

Today Ambassador Heffern met with some members of the Armenian Yezidi community at the U.S. Embassy. They discussed the current situation for Yezidis in Iraq and the U.S. involvement there. Ambassador Heffern underlined the United States Government’s ongoing efforts to alleviate the Yezidis’ humanitarian plight in Iraq and its commitment to their wellbeing.

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U.S. OSCE Statement: Condemnation of Violence Along the Armenian-Azerbaijani Line of Contact

As delivered by Chargé d’Affaires Gary Robbins to the Permanent Council, Vienna The United States strongly condemns the violence along the Line of Contact that has resulted in significant casualties since July 31. We extend our condolences to the families of those killed or injured and call on the sides to take immediate action to …

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Joint Press Release from Minsk Group Co-Chair Country Ambassadors

Today, U.S. Ambassador John Heffern, Russian Ambassador Ivan Volynkin, and French Chargé d’Affaires Isabelle Guisnel called on Vigen A. Sargsyan, Chief of Staff to the President of the Republic of Armenia. The ambassadors expressed condolences to the families of soldiers who lost their lives during recent events along the line of contact of Nagorno Karabakh …

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Joint Statement of the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Armenia and US Embassy in Armenia

Today, the Minister of Defense of the Republic of Armenia Seyran Ohanyan and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to Armenia H.E John Heffern have discussed the recent tensions along the line of contact of Nagorno Karabagh and the border of Azerbaijan and Armenia. Both the Ambassador and the Minister of …

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International Religious Freedom Report 2013

The International Religious Freedom Report is a tool required by U.S. law to ensure that U.S. policy makers can take into account abuses of religious freedom throughout the world. Religious freedom is a universal right enshrined in key international human rights documents, including the Universal Declaration on Human Rights. Religious freedom is a source of …

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Russia’s Continuing Support for Armed Separatists in Ukraine and Ukraine’s Efforts Toward Peace, Unity, and Stability

The United States’ goal throughout the crisis in Ukraine has been to support a democratic Ukraine that is stable, unified, secure both politically and economically, and able to determine its own future.  Therefore, we support ongoing dialogue among the foreign ministers from Ukraine, Germany, France, and Russia to work toward a sustainable ceasefire by all …

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2014 TIP Report

On June 20, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry released the 2014 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report, in which Armenia maintained the highest status of Tier 1.  Last year, Armenia was the only country worldwide to advance to this highest tier.  Thanks to effective on-going efforts of the Armenian government, led by Deputy Prime Minister …

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Armenia’s International Community to Honour Rights Advocates

The U.S. Embassy, Delegation of the European Union to Armenia, British Embassy, OSCE Office in Yerevan, Council of Europe Office in Yerevan, the United Nations Armenia Office and Counterpart International honoured individuals working to promote human rights, accountable governance, civic activism, local government reform, community service and free speech in Armenia at the Universal Rights …

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USAID Assists GoA to Develop Unified Tax Code

On June 17, 2014, the USAID-funded Tax Reform Project, in collaboration with the RA Ministry of Finance, organized an international conference on the subject of Tax Code development. The event brought together key Government of Armenia officials, donors, business representatives, academia, independent researchers, and civil society to discuss the preparatory work necessary to introduce a …

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U.S. Embassy Expands English Access to Remote Areas of Armenia

On June 10, the U. S. Embassy in Armenia, together with Children of Armenia Fund (COAF), launched a new English learning initiative that will expand English learning resources in remote areas of Armenia. The Expanding English Access – Reaching Remote Regions with New Technologies project was initiated and is funded by the U.S. Department of State …

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Clara Barton Book Available Online

Clara Barton’s children book is now available on line. Clara Barton was a visionary leader and American hero who shaped American history and received international recognition for her hard work. In addition to being an educator and nurse during the U.S. Civil War, she founded the American Red Cross in 1881. The relief efforts of …

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Sheep Shearing and Country Music

On 3 May, Ambassador Heffern traveled to Syunik Marz for a series of events. The first was held at the Wings of Tatev ropeway near Halidzor. This event, organized by the Tatev Revival Foundation and the Homeland Development Initiative Foundation, brought together several villages to compete in a sheep-shearing contest. Many vendors were also on …

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Ambassador’s Demining Event

On May 3rd, Ambassador Heffern joined First Deputy Minister of Defense Davit Tonoyan for an orientation visit of demining operations currently being conducted south of Kapan near the village of Srashen. A grant from the Department of State made it possible for the HALO Trust demining organization to begin removing mines in this area on …

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Open Seminar Organized by U.S. Department of Commerce

The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Commercial Law Development Program (CLDP), in partnership with the WTO Secretariat, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and the Ministry of Finance of Armenia, will hold a Seminar on World Trade Organization’s (WTO) Government Procurement Agreement (GPA) Obligations and International Best Practices in Public Procurement in Yerevan on …

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U.S. Congressional Delegation to Visit Armenia

From April 23-26, a U.S. Congressional delegation including Congressman Ed Royce (R-California), Congressman Eliot Engel (D-New York), Congressman  David Cicilline  (D-Rhode Island), and Congresswoman  Lois Frankel  (D-Florida) will visit Armenia.  The delegation will meet with a broad range of interlocutors in the executive branch and members of the National Assembly, as well as with civil society activists and political analysts.  Other visits will …

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USAID and 32 Partner Organizations Launch U.S. Global Development Lab to Help End Extreme Poverty by 2030

On April 4, 2014 the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Administrator Rajiv Shah announced the establishment of the U.S. Global Development Lab at an event in New York City. The launch event featured a keynote address by former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, who has been a strong supporter of the use …

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United States and Armenia Cooperate to Strengthen Counter Nuclear Smuggling Capabilities

Officials from the governments of the United States and Armenia met in Yerevan April 3-4, 2014, to discuss ways to further strengthen cooperation to counter nuclear smuggling. These discussions continued ongoing bilateral cooperation initiated in December 2007 to advance Armenia’s capabilities to prevent, detect, and respond to nuclear and other radioactive material smuggling incidents. At …

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“Clara Barton: Our Angel, Too” Children’s Book Presentation with Varduhi Varderesyan

On March 28, U.S. Ambassador John Heffern presented the children’s book “Clara Barton: Our Angel, Too” at the Khnko-Aper National Children’s Library. Armenian actress Varduhi Varderesyan joined the Ambassador in reading the book to 40 school children from Yerevan.  The event is the culmination of the U.S. Embassy’s month-long celebration of Women’s History, which celebrates …

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U.S. Government transfers disaster package to the Minstry of Emergency Situations of Armenia

On March 21 the U.S. Government transferred a Disaster Package designed to respond to natural and man-made disasters to the Ministry of Emergency Situations. The allocation is administered by Counterpart International, and the ceremony took place at the Ministry of Emergency Situations (MES) of Armenia. John A Heffern, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia, Jerry Oberndorfer, Director …

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Armenian Policewomen participate in training conference in Tbilisi

Fourteen Armenian policewomen actively participated in the international “Women in Policing” training conference organized by the Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL), the Georgian Ministry of Interior, and the International Office of Migration in Tbilisi, March 4 through 6.  Their travel to the Georgian capital was organized and finan