On March 21, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan participated in the inaugural Nuclear Energy Summit, engaging in a series of meetings with several global leaders. These discussions encompassed various aspects of bilateral and regional cooperation, focusing on Armenia's relations with Belgium, Sweden, the European Union, Finland, China, and France.

During the meeting with Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo, the leaders emphasized the significance of the recently opened Belgian embassy in Armenia and discussed opportunities for multi-sectoral cooperation. They also addressed the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace process and the potential for regional infrastructure unblocking.

In the meeting with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, talks centered on enhancing economic cooperation between Armenia and Sweden. Prime Minister Pashinyan reiterated Armenia's principled positions on the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace process and emphasized the importance of the "Crossroads of Peace" project for regional stability and development.

Prime Minister Pashinyan's discussion with President of the European Council, Charles Michel, highlighted Armenia-European Union cooperation and the importance of implementing agreements reached in previous tripartite meetings. 

During the meeting with Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, the leaders explored bilateral cooperation and discussed prospects for deepening ties between Armenia and the European Union. Prime Minister Pashinyan underscored the significance of democratic reforms in Armenia and presented the "Crossroads of Peace" project as a catalyst for regional peace and prosperity.

In talks with Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing, the focus was on enhancing Armenia-China economic cooperation and increasing trade turnover. Prime Minister Pashinyan also discussed the potential for unblocking regional infrastructure.

Lastly, the meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron underscored the importance of high-level political dialogue between Armenia and France. Discussions encompassed steps toward normalizing relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan, as well as broader developments in the South Caucasus region. Both leaders exchanged ideas on further expanding Armenia-European Union cooperation.

Speech at Nuclear Energy Summit

Nikol Pashinyan also participated in the inaugural Nuclear Energy Summit in Brussels. The summit brought together presidents, prime ministers, and representatives from various countries to discuss nuclear energy's role in combating climate change and promoting sustainable development.

In his address at the summit, Prime Minister Pashinyan expressed Armenia's strong support for nuclear energy as a crucial tool in the fight against climate change. He emphasized Armenia's commitment to the principles outlined in the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and advocated for the peaceful development of nuclear energy without discrimination or political barriers. Armenia was among the countries that fully supported the "International Atomic Energy Agency Statement on Nuclear Power" at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai in December 2023.

Pashinyan highlighted the importance of nuclear energy in Armenia's energy strategy, ensuring both energy security and climate change mitigation. He cited the Metsamor Nuclear Power Plant as a critical component of Armenia's energy system, contributing approximately 30% of the country's electricity generation. Despite challenges, including the closure of the plant at one point, Armenia has prioritized the modernization and safety of its nuclear facilities, extending the operational lifespan of the Metsamor Nuclear Power Plant until 2026.

"Armenia actively collaborates with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to uphold nuclear safety and security standards, hosting regular review and peer review missions," he added. Pashinyan emphasized Armenia's unwavering dedication to nuclear safety, as evidenced by the absence of any nuclear or radiation safety incidents throughout the plant's operation.

Looking ahead, Armenia has decided to extend the lifetime of its nuclear power plant until 2036, with plans for the smooth transition to a new power unit upon the end of the extended operational period. Pashinyan reiterated Armenia's commitment to collaborating with the IAEA and partner countries to ensure the safe and peaceful use of atomic energy, exploring advanced nuclear technologies to enhance safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability.

In conclusion, Pashinyan called upon international partners to work together to advance the commitments and goals outlined in the summit declaration, emphasizing nuclear energy's importance in creating a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable future for generations to come.