China and Armenia establish strategic partnership to expand trade and diplomacy
Photo: Chinese leader Xi Jinping (Getty Images)
China and Armenia have officially established a strategic partnership, agreeing to deepen cooperation in political, economic, and humanitarian areas, Echo of the Caucasus reports.
The joint statement was adopted by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Chinese President Xi Jinping during a meeting on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Tianjin, China.
According to the Armenian government's press service, the two sides expressed their intention to expand collaboration in political, economic, and humanitarian spheres. Pashinyan and Xi also emphasized the importance of strengthening ties in science, education, culture, tourism, media, and metrology.
Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan reaffirmed Yerevan's aspiration to join the SCO and agreed with Xi to expand cooperation within the organization.
Xi Jinping, in turn, said that China unconditionally supports the political independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the Republic of Armenia. He also voiced support for Armenia's "Crossroads of the World" project and the reopening of regional communication routes.
The joint statement highlighted Armenia's commitment to the "One China" principle, recognizing Taiwan as an integral part of Chinese territory and acknowledging the Chinese government as the sole legitimate representative of all China. Armenia also opposed any forms of Taiwan independence and supported Beijing's efforts toward national reunification.
Xi Jinping expressed support for the accession of both Armenia and Azerbaijan to the SCO. Georgia became the first country in the region to establish a strategic partnership with China in 2023, followed by Azerbaijan in April 2025. With the new agreement, China is now a strategic partner of all three South Caucasus countries.
Earlier today, India and China announced that they are resuming direct flights after a five-year suspension of air service between the two countries. The move signals improving relations amid economic uncertainty and Trump's policies.
On August 31, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Xi in Tianjin. During the meeting, Xi said that friendship with India is the "right choice" for both nations.
