China and Armenia forge strategic partnership, inking an agreement

In a significant move, Armenia and China have announced the signing of a strategic partnership agreement during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit on Sunday. The agreement aims to increase mutual investments and cooperation in various sectors, including industry, information, telecommunications, and energy.

The strategic partnership, as announced by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Chinese President Xi Jinping, also includes a commitment to work together on projects under the 'Crossroads of Peace' initiative and China's Belt and Road Initiative. The 'Crossroads of Peace' initiative, proposed by Armenia, aims to unblock transit links through its own territory for neighbouring countries, serving as a countermeasure to Azerbaijan's 'Zangezur corridor' proposal.

China has expressed its support for Armenia's political independence and sovereignty, and both nations have pledged to refrain from actions that would 'harm the sovereignty, security, and development interests of the other side'. This agreement marks a significant step in the strengthening of relations between the two countries.

The details of the transit links between Armenia and Azerbaijan through the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) remain scarce, but it is understood that this agreement could pave the way for improved relations between the two nations.

Armenia's strategic partnership with China is not an isolated event; Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan have all signed similar agreements with China. The partnership also includes a commitment to cooperate within the United Nations and 'join hands in promoting an equal and orderly multipolar world'.

It is worth noting that Armenia has consistently opposed any form of Taiwanese independence. The Belt and Road Initiative, as noted by Pashinyan, could be linked to the 'Crossroads of Peace' initiative, further strengthening the ties between the two nations.

This strategic partnership agreement was facilitated by the Armenian government itself, and it was officially published by Armenian state-run media outlet Armenpress. China has also expressed its support for Armenia's 'Crossroads of Peace' initiative, demonstrating a shared commitment to promoting peace and prosperity in the region.