Washington, DC – Anthony Barsamian, Co-Chair of the Armenian Assembly of America (Assembly), traveled to Armenia and met with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and former President Robert Kocharyan this summer.

Joined by the Assembly’s Regional Office Director Arpi Vartanian, the meeting focused on relations between Armenia and the United States. Barsamian stated that the Assembly will continue its efforts to enhance Armenian American activism based on mutually shared values.

During the meeting, Barsamian also extended his condolences to the Armenian Republic and families of the soldiers killed in the Artsakh war last Fall.

While in Armenia, Barsamian was interviewed by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, where he elaborated on U.S.-Armenia relations under the Biden Administration and its increased humanitarian assistance and involvement in the region. He commented on the importance of building infrastructure in Armenia, alongside U.S. partnership, to assist in strengthening Armenia’s security and prosperity.

Regarding the post-war situation, Barsamian urged for the immediate release of Armenian prisoners of war and intensified efforts from the OSCE Minsk Group to negotiate a comprehensive peace agreement. Barsamian cited security as the primary issue for Armenia at the moment.

Despite the milestone of U.S. affirmation of the Armenian Genocide, Barsamian noted the work of the Assembly carries on as the international trend of affirmation continues. Barsamian also noted the importance of Turkey coming to terms with its past.

“This visit provided an important opportunity to strengthen relations and discuss current developments in Armenia and the United States as we all work toward a secure and peaceful Armenia and Artsakh,” said Assembly Regional Director Arpi Vartanian.