Foreign relations of Armenia

Since its independence, Armenia has maintained a policy of complementarism by trying to have friendly relations both with Iran, Russia, and the West, including the United States and Europe. However, the dispute over the Armenian genocide and the recent war over Nagorno–Karabakh have created tense relations with two of its immediate neighbors, Azerbaijan and Turkey. Armenia is a member of more than 40 different international organizations including the United Nations, the Council of Europe, the Commonwealth of Independent States, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, NATO's Partnership for Peace, the North Atlantic Cooperation Council, the International Monetary Fund, the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the World Trade Organization and La Francophonie. It is also an observer member of the Eurasian Economic Community and the Non-Aligned Movement. Eduard Nalbandyan serves as Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia.

Armenian genocide recognition

Main article: Recognition of the Armenian Genocide

Political map showing states which have officially recognized the Armenian Genocide.

Parliaments of countries that recognize the Armenian genocide include Argentina, Armenia, Austria, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Cyprus, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Lebanon, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Paraguay, Poland, Russia, Slovakia, Sweden, Switzerland, Syria, Uruguay, Vatican City and Venezuela; additionally, some regional governments of countries recognize the Armenian genocide too, such as New South Wales and South Australia in Australia, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales in the United Kingdom. US House Resolution 106 was introduced on 30 January 2007, and later referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. The bill has 225 co-sponsors. The bill called for former President George W. Bush to recognize and use the word genocide in his annual 24 April speech which he never used. His successor President Barack Obama has expressed his desire to recognize the Armenian Genocide during the electoral campaigns, but after being elected, has not used the word genocide in his first annual 24 April speech in 2009 and ever since.

Disputes

Nagorno-Karabakh/Independent Republic

See also: Nagorno-Karabakh conflict

Armenia supports ethnic Armenians in the Nagorno–Karabakh republic in the longstanding and very bitter conflict against the Azerbaijani government.

The current conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh (NK) began in 1988 when Armenian demonstrations against Azerbaijani rule broke out in Nagorno–Karabakh and later in Armenia and the Nagorno-Karabakh Supreme Soviet voted to secede from Azerbaijan and join Armenia. Soon, violence broke out against ethnic Armenians in Azerbaijan and ethnic Azeris in Armenia. In 1990, after violent episodes in Nagorno–Karabakh and Azerbaijani cities like Baku, Sumgait and Kirovabad, Moscow declared a state of emergency in Karabakh, sent troops to the region, and forcibly occupied Baku, killing over a hundred civilians. In April 1991, Azerbaijani militia and Soviet forces targeted Armenian populations in Karabakh, known as Operation Ring. Moscow also deployed troops to Yerevan. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, conflict escalated into a full-scale war between the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic, supported by Armenia, and Azerbaijan. Military action was influenced by the Russian military, which inspired and manipulated the rivalry between the two neighbouring sides in order to keep both under control.

More than 30,000 people were killed in the fighting from 1988 to 1994. In May 1992, ethnic Armenian forces seized Shusha and Lachin (thereby linking Nagorno-Karabakh to Armenia). By October 1993, ethnic Armenian forces succeeded in taking almost all of former NKAO, Lachin and large areas in southwestern Azerbaijan. In 1993, the UN Security Council adopted four resolutions calling for the cessation of hostilities, unimpeded access for international humanitarian relief efforts, and the eventual deployment of a peacekeeping force in the region. Fighting continued, however, until May 1994 when Russia brokered a cease-fire, between the three sides.

Negotiations to resolve the conflict peacefully have been ongoing since 1992 under the aegis of the Minsk Group of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe. The Minsk Group is co-chaired by Russia, France, and the United States and has representation from Turkey, the U.S., several European nations, Armenia and Azerbaijan. Despite the 1994 cease-fire, sporadic violations, sniper-fire and landmine incidents continue to claim over 100 lives each year.

Since 1997, the Minsk Group co-chairs have presented three proposals to serve as a framework for resolving the conflict. One side or the other rejected each of those proposals. Beginning in 1999, the presidents of Azerbaijan and Armenia initiated a direct dialogue through a series of face-to-face meetings, often facilitated by the Minsk Group Co-Chairs. The OSCE sponsored a round of negotiations between the presidents in Key West, Florida. U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell launched the talks on 3 April 2001, and the negotiations continued with mediation by the U.S., Russia and France until 6 April 2001. The Co-Chairs are continuing to work with the two presidents in the hope of finding a lasting peace.

The two countries are still technically at war. Citizens of the Republic of Armenia, as well as citizens of any other country who are of Armenian descent, are forbidden entry to the Republic of Azerbaijan. If a person's passport shows any evidence of travel to Nagorno–Karabakh, they are forbidden entry to the Republic of Azerbaijan.

In 2008, in what became known as the 2008 Mardakert Skirmishes, ethnic Armenia forces and Azerbaijan clashed over Nagorno-Karabakh. The fighting between the sides was brief, with few casualties on either side.

Countries with no diplomatic relations

Armenia does not have diplomatic relations with the following countries (organized by continent):

Africa

• Cape Verde
• Central African Republic
• São Tomé and Príncipe
• South Sudan
• Lesotho
• Botswana

Asia

• Pakistan (Pakistan does not recognize Armenia)
• Saudi Arabia
• Yemen

Australia

• Palau
• Micronesia
• Marshall Islands
• Kiribati
• Nauru, Cook Islands, Niue
• Tonga
• Samoa
• Solomon Islands
• Papua New Guinea

Europe

• Azerbaijan
• Hungary (suspended by Armenia since 31 August 2012 due to Ramil Safarov's extradition to Azerbaijan)
• Turkey

North America

• St. Kitts and Nevis
• Dominica
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Barbados

Armenia also has no diplomatic relations with states with limited recognition.

Countries with diplomatic relations

Foreign relations of Armenia:

  Diplomatic relations established

  No diplomatic relations established

  Diplomatic relations suspended by Armenia

Armenia has diplomatic relations with 151 sovereign entities (including the Vatican City and Order of Malta). These include: Albania, Afghanistan, Andorra, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Belarus, Belgium, Benin, Bhutan, Bangladesh,Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chad, Chile, the People's Republic of China, Côte d'Ivoire, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, DR Congo, Egypt, East Timor, Equatorial Guinea, Estonia, Ethiopia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Grenada, Holy See (Vatican City), Honduras, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, North Korea, South Korea, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lebanon, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Libya, Macedonia, Malta, Mauritania, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Myanmar, Norway, Netherlands, Nigeria, Oman, Order of Malta, Paraguay, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Serbia, Seychelles, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sudan, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Syria, Tajikistan, Thailand, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Uruguay and Vietnam.

Notes on some of these relations follow:

Europe

Further information: Armenia–European Union relations

Country	Formal relations began	Notes
Albania	18 February 1993	See Armenia–Albania relations Armenia is represented in Albania through its embassy in Athens, (Greece). Albania is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Athens, (Greece).
Andorra	18 November 2003	See Armenia–Andorra relations Armenia is represented in Andorra through its embassy in Paris, (France). Andorra is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Paris, (France).
Azerbaijan	No diplomatic relations	See Armenia–Azerbaijan relations, Nagorno-Karabakh War, Sumgait pogrom, Baku pogrom, Khojaly massacre, Maraga massacre, Khachkar destruction in Nakhichevan The two nations have fought two wars in 1918–20 (Armenian–Azerbaijani War) and in 1988–94 (Nagorno-Karabakh War), in the past century, with last one ended with provisional cease fire agreement signed in Bishkek. There are no formal diplomatic relations between the two countries, because of the ongoing Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and dispute. During the Soviet period, many Armenians and Azeris lived in relative peace under the Soviet iron fist. However, when Mikhail Gorbachev introduced the policies of Glasnost and Perestroika, the majority of Armenians from the Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Oblast (NKAO) of the Azerbaijan SSR began a movement to unify with the Armenian SSR. In 1988, the Armenians of Karabakh voted to secede and join Armenia. This, along with sporadic massacres in Azerbaijan against Armenians resulted in the conflict that became known as the Nagorno-Karabakh War. The violence resulted in de facto Armenian control of former NKAO and seven surrounding Azerbaijani regions which was effectively halted when the three sides agreed to observe a cease-fire which has been in effect since May 1994, and in late 1995 the sides also agreed to mediation of the OSCE Minsk Group. The Minsk Group is co-chaired by the U.S., France and Russia, and comprises Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey and several Western European nations. Despite the cease fire, up to 40 clashes are reported along the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict lines of control each year. The sides are still technically at war. Citizens of the Republic of Armenia, as well as citizens of any other country who are of Armenian descent, are forbidden entry to the Republic of Azerbaijan.[5] If a person's passport shows any evidence of travel to Nagorno-Karabakh, they are forbidden to enter the Republic of Azerbaijan.[54] In 2008, in what became known as the 2008 Mardakert Skirmishes, Armenia and Azerbaijan clashed over Nagorno-Karabakh. The fighting between the three sides was brief, with few casualties on either side.[6]
Austria	24 January 1992	See Armenia–Austria relations Armenia has an embassy in Vienna. Austria has an honorary consulate in Yerevan.
Belarus	12 June 1993	See Armenia–Belarus relations Armenia has an embassy in Minsk. Belarus has an embassy in Yerevan and honorary consulate in Gyumri.
Belgium	10 March 1992	See Armenia–Belgium relations Armenia has an embassy in Brussels. Belgium is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Moscow.
Bosnia and Herzegovina	29 July 1997	See Armenia–Bosnia and Herzegovina relations Bosnia is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Moscow.
Bulgaria	18 January 1992	See Armenia–Bulgaria relations Armenia has an embassy in Sofia and honorary consulates in Plovdiv and Varna. Since 19 December 1999, Bulgaria has an embassy in Yerevan. Both countries are full members of the Organization of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation. There are around 30,000 people of Armenian descent living in Bulgaria.
Croatia	8 July 1994	See Armenia–Croatia relations Armenia is represented in Croatia through its embassy in Rome (Italy) and honorary consulate in Zagreb. Croatia is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Athens (Greece) and honorary consulate in Yerevan.
Cyprus	18 March 1992	See Armenia–Cyprus relations Cyprus was the second country to recognise the Armenian Genocide, on 24 April 1975. Armenia is represented in Cyprus through its embassy in Athens (Greece). Cyprus is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Moscow (Russia), and through an honorary consulate in Yerevan. There are over 3.500 people of Armenian descent living in Cyprus.[57] Vahan Ovanesyan of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation visited Cyprus on 24 January 2001 to take part in celebrations of the 110th anniversary of the federation.
Czech Republic	30 March 1992	See Armenia–Czech Republic relations Armenia is represented in Czech Republic through its embassy in Prague. The Czech Republic is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Yerevan. There are around 12,000 people of Armenian descent living in the Czech Republic.
Denmark	14 January 1992	See Armenia–Denmark relations Armenia is represented in Denmank through its embassy in Kopenhagen, Denmark. Denmark is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Kiev, Ukraine and honorary consulate in Yerevan.
Estonia	23 August 1992	See Armenia–Estonia relations Armenia is represented in Estonia through its embassy in Vilnius (Lithuania) and an honorary consulate in Tallinn. Estonia is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Athens (Greece) and through an honorary consulate in Yerevan. Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs about relations with Armenia
Finland	25 March 1992	See Armenia–Finland relations Before 1918, both countries were part of the Russian Empire. Finland recognised Armenia on 30 December 1991. Armenia is represented in Finland by a non-resident ambassador (based in Stokholm, Sweden). Finland is represented in Armenia by a non-resident ambassador (based in Helsinki at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs) and an honorary consulate in Yerevan. Around 1,000 people of Armenian descent live in Finland. Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs about relations with Armenia
France	24 February 1992	See Armenia–France relations Franco-Armenian relations have existed since the French and the Armenians established contact in the Armenian Kingdom of Cilicia and are close to this day. 2006 was proclaimed the Year of Armenia in France. Armenia has an embassy in Paris and honorary consulates in Lyon and Marseille. France has an embassy in Yerevan.
Germany	Jan 1992	See Armenia–Germany relations Armenia has an embassy in Berlin and honorary consulate in Karlsruhe. Germany has an embassy in Yerevan.
Georgia	17 July 1992	See Armenia–Georgia relations Armenians and Georgians have a lot in common. Both are ancient Christian civilizations with their own distinct alphabets. Both use the terms "Apostolic" and "Orthodox" in the full titles of their respective churches. They also use the term "Catholicos" to refer to their church patriarchs. Despite all this, however, Armenians and Georgians have tended to have a tenuous relationship (at times, sharing close bonds while at other times regarding each other as rivals). Today, relations with Georgia are of particular importance for Armenia because, under the economic blockade imposed by Turkey and Azerbaijan due to the ongoing Karabakh conflict, Georgia offers Armenia its only land connection with Europe and access to its Black Sea ports. However, because of Armenia's reliance on Russia and Georgia, both of whom fought the 2008 South Ossetia war and severed diplomatic and economic relations as a result; and as 70% of Armenia's imports entered via Georgia especially from Russia which has imposed an economic blockade on Georgia, Armenia also has been indirectly affected from this blockade as well. The development of close relations between Turkey and Georgia (such as the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline and South Caucasus natural gas pipeline) have also weighed on the mutual relations. For example, on 20 March 2006, Georgian Ambassador to Armenia Revaz Gachechiladze stated, "We sympathize with the sister nation but taking decisions of the kind we should take into account the international situation. When the time comes Georgia will do everything within the limits of the possible for the recognition of the Armenian Genocide by the international community including Georgia."[59] However, Armenian-Georgian relations have begun to improve. On 10 May 2006, Armenia and Georgia agreed on the greater part of the lines of the state border between the two countries.[60] The Javakheti region in southern Georgia contains a large Armenian population and although there have been local civic organizations (such as United Javakhk) pushing for autonomy, there has been no violence between Armenians and Georgians in the area. Armenia has an embassy in Tbilisi and general consulate in Batumi. Georgia has an embassy in Yerevan.
Greece	20 January 1992	See Armenia–Greece relations Greece was one of the first countries to recognize Armenia's independence on 21 September 1991, and one of those that have officially recognized the Armenian Genocide. Since the independence of Armenia the two countries have been partners within the framework of international organizations (United Nations, OSCE, Council of Europe, BSEC), whilst Greece firmly supports the community programs aimed at further developing relations between the EU and Armenia. Continuous visits of the highest level have shown that both countries want to continue to improve the levels of friendship and cooperation (Visit by the President of Armenia Levon Ter-Petrossian to Greece in 1996, visit by the President of the Hellenic Republic Costis Stephanopoulos in 1999, visit by the President of Armenia Robert Kocharyan to Greece in 2000 and 2005 and visit by Greek president Karolos Papoulias to Armenia in June 2007). Greece is, after Russia, the major military partner of Armenia. Armenian officers are trained in Greek military academies, and various technical assistance is supplied by Greece. Since 2003, an Armenian platoon has been deployed in Kosovo as part of KFOR, where they operate as a part of the Greek battalion of KFOR. Armenia has an embassy in Athens. Greece has an embassy in Yerevan.
Holy See	23 May 1992	See Armenia–Holy See relations Armenia has an Embassy in Rome.
Hungary	26 February 1992 — 31 Aug 2012	See Armenia–Hungary relations Armenia was represented in Hungary through its embassy in Vienna (Austria). Hungary was represented in Armenia through its embassy in Tbilisi(Georgia) and an honorary consulate in Yerevan. There are around 15,000 people of Armenian descent living in Hungary.
Iceland	1995	See Armenia–Iceland relations
Ireland	13 June 1996	See Armenia–Ireland relations Ireland recognized Armenia's independence in December 1991. Armenia is represented in Ireland through its embassy in London and through an honorary consulate in Dublin. Ireland is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Sofia (Bulgaria) and through an honorary consulate in Yerevan. Both countries are full members of the Council of Europe.
Italy	12 May 1993	See Armenia–Italy relations Armenia has an embassy in Rome. and honorary consulate in Milano. Italy has an embassy in Yerevan and an honorary consulate in Gyumri. Italy has recognized the Armenian Genocide in 2000. There are around 4,000 people of Armenian descent living in Italy.
Latvia	22 August 1992	See Armenia–Latvia relations Armenia is represented in Latvia through its embassy in Vilnius (Lithuania). Latvia is represented in Armenia through a non-resident ambassador based in Riga (at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs) and through an honorary consulate in Yerevan. There are around 5,000 people of Armenian descent living in Latvia. Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs about relations with Armenia Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: direction if the Latvian representation in Armenia
Liechtenstein	7 May 2008	See Armenia–Liechtenstein relations
Lithuania	21 November 1991	See Armenia–Lithuania relations Armenia has an embassy in Vilnius. Lithuania has an embassy in Yerevan. There are around 2,500 people of Armenian descent living in Lithuania. Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign affairs: list of bilateral treaties with Armenia (in Lithuanian only)
Luxembourg	11 June 1992	See Armenia–Luxembourg relations Armenia is represented in Luxembourg through its embassy in Brussels, (Belgium), and an honorary consulate in Luxembourg.
Macedonia	27 April 1993	See Armenia–Macedonia relations
Malta	27 May 1993	See Armenia–Malta relations Armenia is represented in Malta through its embassy in Rome. Malta is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Warsaw and honorary consulate in Yerevan.
Moldova	May 1992	See Armenia–Moldova relations Armenia is represented in Moldova through its embassy in Kiev (Ukraine) and honorary consulate in Chisinau. Moldova is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Moscow (Russia). There are around 8,000 people of Armenina descent living in Moldova. Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: presentation of the Moldovan ambassador’s credentials to the Armenian Foreign Minister Moldovan Ministry of Foreign Affairs: list of bilateral treaties with Armenia
Monaco	Oct 2008	See Armenia–Monaco relations
Montenegro		See Armenia–Montenegro relations Montenegro has an honorary consulate in Yerevan.
Netherlands	30 January 1992	See Armenia–Netherlands relations Armenia has an embassy in The Hague and honorary consulate in Hilversum. The Netherlands is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Tbilisi, Georgia. It made plans to open an embassy in Yerevan. There are around 8,000 people of Armenian descent living in the Netherlands. The Netherlands is also one of the countries who has recognized the Armenian genocide. Both countries are full members of the Council of Europe. The Netherlands is a European Union member and Armenia is a candidate. Both countries have the worlds third largest trade of diamonds and second largest trade in between the countries. Both the Netherlands and Armenia have the worlds top share in the diamond industry. Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs about relations with Armenia (in Dutch only)
Norway	5 June 1992	See Armenia–Norway relations Armenia is represented in Norway through its embassy in Kopenhagen (Denmark). Norway has an honorary consulate in Yerevan.
Poland	26 February 1992	See Armenia–Poland relations Armenia has an embassy in Warsaw. Poland has an embassy in Yerevan. See also Armenians in Poland
Portugal	25 May 1992	See Armenia–Portugal relations Armenia is represented in Portugal through its embassy in Rome (Italy) and honorary consulates in Lisbon and Porto. Portugal is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Moscow (Russia). One of the most notable Armenians who resided in Portugal was Calouste Gulbenkian. He was a wealthy Armenian businessman and philanthropist, who made Lisbon the headquarters for his businesses. He established the international charity, the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation in Lisbon. He also founded the Museu Calouste Gulbenkian in Lisbon.
Romania	17 November 1991	See Armenia–Romania relations Armenia has an embassy in Bucharest. Romania has an embassy in Yerevan.
Russia	3 April 1992	See Armenia–Russia relations Armenia's most notable recent foreign policy success came with 29 August treaty with Russia on friendship, cooperation and mutual assistance, in which Moscow committed itself to the defense of Armenia should it be attacked by a third party. Russia is the key regional security player, and has proved a valuable historical ally for Armenia. Although it appeared as a response to Aliyev's US trip, the treaty had probably long been under development. However, it is clear from the wider context of Armenian foreign policy that—while Yerevan welcomes the Russian security guarantee—the country does not want to rely exclusively on Moscow, nor to become part of a confrontation between Russian and US-led alliances in the Transcaucasus. Armenia has an embassy in Moscow and general consulates Dony Rostov and Sankt Peterburg and honorary consulates in Kaliningrad and Sochi. Russia has an embassy in Yerevan and general consulate in Gyumri.
San Marino	21 March 2006	See Armenia–San Marino relations Armenia is represented in San Marino through its embassy in Rome (Italy). San Marino has an honorary consulte in Yerevan.
Serbia	14 January 1993	See Armenia–Serbia relations Armenia is represented in Serbia through its embassy in Athens (Greece) and honorary consulate in Belgrad. Serbia is also represented in Armenia through its embassy in Athens and honorary consulate in Yerevan. Serbian Ministry of Foreign Affairs about relations with Armenia
Slovakia	14 January 1993	See Armenia–Slovakia relations Armenia is represented in Slovakia through its embassy in Prague (Czech Republic). Slovakia is represented in Armenia through a non-resident ambassador based in Bratislava (in the Foreign Ministry) and honorary consulate in Yerevan. Both countries are full members of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe and of the Council of Europe. Between 24–28 February 2008, Slovak Foreign Minister Ján Kubiš made an official visit to Armenia.
Slovenia	27 June 1994	See Armenia–Slovenia relations Armenia has an honorary consulate in Ljubljana. Slovenia has an honorary consulate in Yerevan.
Spain	27 January 1992	See Armenia–Spain relations Armenia has an embassy in Madrid and there is an 2 honorary consulates in Valencia and Barcelona. Spain is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Moscow (Russia) and an honorary consulate in Yerevan. It made plans to open embassy in Yerevan. Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperations about the relation with Armenia (in Spanish only)
Sweden	10 July 1992	See Armenia–Sweden relations Armenia has an embassy in Stockholm. Sweden has an embassy in Yerevan 2014. Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs: informations about the Swedish ambassador to Armenia
Switzerland	23 December 1991	See Armenia–Switzerland relations The Armenian ambassador to Switzerland and the Swiss ambassador to Armenia (based in Yerevan, Armenia) were both accredited in 2011. The Armenian ambassador to Switzerland is based in Geneva, in the Armenian representation to the United Nations. Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs about relations with Armenia
Ukraine	25 December 1992	See Armenia–Ukraine relations Armenian-Ukrainian relations have lasted for centuries and today are cordial. Relations between Armenia and Ukraine have deflated since Armenia recognized the illegal referendum in Crimea and its subsequent annexation by Russia, and Ukraine has withdrawn its ambassador to Armenia for consultations. The Ukrainian government has asserted that this is temporary and that diplomatic relations between the two states shall indeed continue. Armenia has an embassy in Kyiv and consulates in Odessa and Yalta. Ukraine has an embassy in Yerevan and honorary consulate in Gyumri.
United Kingdom	20 January 1992	See Armenia–United Kingdom relations The United Kingdom recognised Armenia on 31 December 1991. The first Embassy of the Republic of Armenia in Europe was established in London in October 1992. Since 1995, the United Kingdom has an embassy in Yerevan. The two countries maintain collaborative and friendly relations, however the United Kingdom does not recognize the Armenian Genocide, as it considers that the evidence is not clear enough to respectively consider "the terrible events that afflicted the Ottoman Armenian population at the beginning of the last century" genocide under the 1948 UN convention. The British government states the "massacres were an appalling tragedy" and states that this was the view of the government during that period. Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland consider it to be a genocide, and there is a memorial in Cardiff, Wales. British Foreign and Commonwealth Office about relations with Armenia

Asia

Country	Formal relations began	Notes
Bhutan	27 September 2012	See Armenia–Bhutan relations
China	6 April 1992	See Armenia–China relations China recognized Armenia on 21 December 1991. Armenia has an embassy in Beijing. China has an embassy in Yerevan. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations, cultural exchange has been a major component of bilateral relations, as both nations recognize the importance of creating a strong foundation based upon their ancient and rich histories.
India	31 August 1992	See Armenia–India relations Since 1999, Armenia has an embassy in New Delhi and two honorary consulates Mumbai, and Chennai. India has an embassy in Yerevan. Indian government is funding the renovation of schools in Lori region. Around 700 Medical students are studying in Armenian universities. Armenia recognizes Kashmir to be part of India and not of Pakistan. Armenia supports India's bid for permanent seat in the UNSC.
Iran		See Armenia–Iran relations Despite religious and ideological differences, relations between Armenia and the Islamic Republic of Iran remain cordial and both Armenia and Iran are strategic partners in the region. Armenia and Iran enjoy cultural and historical ties that go back thousands of years. There are no border disputes between the two countries and the Christian Armenian minority in Iran enjoys official recognition. Of special importance is the cooperation in the field of energy security which lowers Armenia's dependence on Russia and can in the future also supply Iranian gas to Europe through Georgia and the Black Sea. Armenia has an embassy in Tehran. Iran has an embassy in Yerevan.
Israel		See Armenia–Israel relations Since independence, Armenia has received support from Israel and today remains one of its major trade partners. While both countries have diplomatic relations, neither maintains an embassy in the other country. Instead, Ehude Moshe Eytam, the Israeli ambassador to Armenia is based in Tbilisi, Georgia, and visits Yerevan twice a month. Israel has recognized 10 Armenians as Righteous Among the Nations for risking their lives to save Jews during the Holocaust.
Japan	7 September 1992	See Armenia–Japan relations Armenia has an embassy in Tokyo. Japan has an embassy in Yerevan. Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs about relations with Armenia Japan–Armenia Friendship Association (日本アルメニア友好協会, Nihon Arumenia Yūkō Kyōkai) Template:Ja icon
Kazakhstan	27 August 1992	See Armenia–Kazakhstan relations Since 1992 Armenia has an embassy in Almaty. Kazakhstan has an embassy in Yerevan. Kazakh Ministry of Foreign Affairs about relations with Armenia
North Korea	13 February 1992	See Foreign relations of North Korea The establishment of diplomatic relations between the Hayastani Hanrapetutyun (Republic of Armenia) and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea) started on 13 February 1992.
Kuwait	1994	See Armenia–Kuwait relations Armenia has an embassy in Kuwait city. Kuwait has an embassy in Yerevan. There are between 5,000 people of Armenian descent living in Kuwait.
Lebanon		See Armenia–Lebanon relations Armenian-Lebanese relations are very friendly. Lebanon is host to the eighth largest Armenian population in the world and is the only member of the Arab League, much less of the Middle East and the Islamic World that recognizes the Armenian Genocide. During the 2006 Lebanon War, Armenia announced that it would send humanitarian aid to Lebanon. According to the Armenian government, an unspecified amount of medicines, tents and fire-fighting equipment was allocated to Lebanese authorities on 27 July 2006. Armenia has an embassy in Beirut. Lebanon has an embassy in Yerevan.
Malaysia	11 March 1993	See Armenia–Malaysia relations Armenia is represented in Malaysia through embassy in New Delhi (India). Malaysia is represented in Armenia through embassy in Moscow (Russia). Malaysia never have close contact with Armenia to maintain the relationships with Turkey.
Pakistan		See Armenia–Pakistan relations Armenia-Pakistan relations are poor owing to disagreements between the two countries. The main issue is the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Pakistan is a major supporter of Azerbaijan during and after the Nagorno-Karabakh War. Pakistan also does not recognize Armenia despite Armenia recognizing Pakistan. Pakistan does not recognize the Armenian Genocide and maintains that during the war large number of Armenians and Muslims were killed. Armenia also has friendly relations with India, which Pakistan heavily opposes.
Philippines	20 May 1992	See Armenia–Philippines relations The Philippines has a consulate in Yerevan. Armenia has a consulate in Manila.
Sri Lanka	12 February 1992	See Armenia–Sri Lanka relations Armenia is represented in Sri Lanka through the Embassy of Armenia in New Delhi. Sri Lanka is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Moscow (Russia) and an honorary consulate in Yerevan.
Saudi Arabia		See Armenia–Saudi Arabia relations There are no diplomatic relations between Armenia and Saudi Arabia.
South Korea	21 February 1992	See Armenia–South Korea relations South Korea–Armenia relations Armenian–South Korean relations South Korean–Armenian relations The establishment of diplomatic relations between the Hayastani Hanrapetutyun (Republic of Armenia) and the Republic of Korea (South Korea) began on 21 February 1992. The Republic of Korea and the Republic of Armenia Policy Consultation will deal with ways to vitalize high-level exchanges promote substantive cooperation and work together on regional and global issues. Armenia has an honorary consulate in Seoul . The Republic of Korea has an honorary consulate in Yerevan. Bilateral Trade in 2014 : Exports : $15 million (Textile, Automobile) Imports : $3 million (Animal Feed, Rubber) The number of the South Koreans living in Republic of Armenia in 2012 was about 60. Foreign relations of South Korea#Europe Foreign relations of South Korea Foreign relations of the Republic of Korea.
Syria		See Armenia–Syria relations Armenia has an embassy in Damascus and a consulate general in Aleppo and honorary consulate in Der ez-Zor . Since 1997, Syria has an embassy in Yerevan. There are around 150,000 people of Armenian descent living in the Syria. During the Armenian Genocide, the main killing fields of Armenians were located in the Syrian desert of Deir ez-Zor. Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: direction of the Syrian embassy in Yerevan
Turkey	No formal diplomatic relations	See Armenia–Turkey relations Turkey was one of the first countries to recognize Armenia's independence in 1991. Despite this, for most of the 20th century and early 21st century, relations remain tense and there are no formal diplomatic relations between the two countries for numerous reasons. Some bones of contention include the unresolved Karabakh conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan (which has resulted in Turkey imposing a blockade on Armenia that is still in effect today), the treatment of Armenians in Turkey, the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline, and the Armenian claim of Turkey's holding of historic Armenian lands (ceded to them in the Treaty of Kars, a treaty which Armenia refuses to recognize to this day since it was signed between the Soviet Union and Turkey, and not between Armenia and Turkey proper). At the forefront of all disputes, however, is the issue surrounding the Armenian Genocide. The killing and deportation of between one and one-and-a-half million Armenians from the Ottoman Empire orchestrated by the Young Turks is a taboo subject in Turkey itself as the Turkish government refuses to acknowledge that a genocide ever happened. However, since Turkey has become a candidate to join the European Union, limited discussion of the event is now taking place in Turkey. Some in the European Parliament have even suggested that one of the provisions for Turkey to join the E.U. should be the full recognition of the event as genocide. On 5 June 2005, Armenian President Robert Kocharian announced that he was ready to "continue dialogue with Azerbaijan for the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and with Turkey on establishing relations without any preconditions." Armenia has also stated that as a legal successor to the Armenian SSR, it is loyal to the Treaty of Kars and all agreements inherited by the former Soviet Armenian government. Yet Turkey continues to lay preconditions on relations, insisting that Armenia abandon its efforts to have the Genocide recognized, which official Yerevan is not willing to do. In the wake of the 2008 South Ossetia war between Russia and Georgia, Armenia and Turkey have shown signs of an inclination to reconsider their relationship. According to The Economist magazine, 70% of Armenia's imports enter via Georgia. Because of the apparently belligerent posture of the Russian state, economic ties with Turkey appear especially attractive.
Turkmenistan	1992	See Armenia–Turkmenistan relations Armenia has an embassy in Ashgabat. Turkmenistan has an embassy in Yerevan. Both countries are full members of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe. There are between 32,000 people of Armenian descent living in Turkmenistan.
United Arab Emirates		See Armenia–United Arab Emirates relations Armenia has an embassy in Abu Dhabi. The United Arab Emirates is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Tehran (Iran). There are around 3,500 people of Armenian descent living in the United Arab Emirates. Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: presentation of the Emirati ambassador’s credentials to the Armenian Foreign Minister
Vietnam	1992	Armenia-Vietnam relations Diplomatic relations between Armenia and Vietnam were established on 14 July 1992. Armenia has en embassy in Hanoi. Vietnam is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Moscow, Russia.

Africa, Americas and Oceania

Country	Formal relations began	Notes
Argentina	17 January 1992	See Armenia–Argentina relations Argentina is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Yerevan. Armenia has an embassy in Buenos Aires. Argentine parliament has recognized the Armenian Genocide. List of Treaties ruling the relations Argentina and Armenia (Argentine Foreign Ministry, in Spanish)
Australia		See Armenia–Australia relations The first Armenians migrated to Australia in the 1850s, during the gold rush. The majority came to Australia in the 1960s, starting with the Armenians of Egypt after Nasser came to power then, in the early 1970s, from Cyprus after the Turkish occupation of the island and from 1975 until 1992, a period of civil unrest in Lebanon. Person-to-person governmental links are increasing although they are still modest. In September 2003, The Hon Mr Philip Ruddock MP visited Armenia in his former capacity as Australian Minister for Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs. In October 2005, the Armenian Foreign Minister, H.E. Mr Vardan Oskanyan, visited Australia. In November 2005, The Hon Mr Joe Hockey MP, Minister for Human Services, visited Armenia. The Parliament of the Commonwealth of Australia refuses to recognise the mass murder of Armenians in 1915 as Genocide, although the State of N.S.W passed a law recognising this several years earlier. The Australian Government elections of 2007 created an atmosphere in which the Opposition Labor party declared it will push for the Recognition of the Armenian Genocide in Australian Parliament if Labor wins the Elections.
Brazil	17 February 1992	See Armenia–Brazil relations Brazil has an embassy in Yerevan. Armenia has an embassy in Brasilia and general consulate in São Paulo. There are around 45,000 people of Armenian descent living in Brazil.
Canada		See also Armenia–Canada relations, Embassy of Armenia in Ottawa, Armenian Canadian Armenia has an embassy in Ottawa. Canada is accredited to Armenia from its embassy in Moscow, Russia and an honorary consulate in Yerevan. In 2004, the parliament of Canada recognized the Armenian Genocide. Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade about relations with Armenian
Chile	1992	See Armenia–Chile relations Armenia is represented in Chile through its embassy in Buenos Aires (Argentina), and honorary consulate in Santiago. Chile is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Moscow (Russia). There are around 1,600 people of Armenian descent living in Chile. Chile recognized the Armenian Genocide on 14 September 2007.
Egypt	March 1992	See Armenia–Egypt relations Egypt has an embassy in Yerevan. Armenia has an embassy in Cairo.
Madagascar	1993	Armenia-Madagascar relations Diplomatic relations between Armenia and Madagascar were established on 25 June 1993.
Mauritius	28 June 2013	Armenia-Mauritius relations Diplomatic relations between Armenia and Mauritius were established on 28 June 2013.
Mexico	14 January 1992	See Armenia–Mexico relations Armenia has an embassy in Mexico City. Mexico is accredited to Armenia from its embassy in Moscow, Russia. There are approximately 400 Armenians living in Mexico and several thousand Mexicans of Armenian descent. See also: Armenians in Mexico
Peru	20 April 1992	See Armenia–Peru relations Peru recognized Armenia on 26 December 1991. Peru is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Moscow, Russia. There are around 50 people of Armenian descent living in Peru.
Seychelles	19 April 2006	Armenia-Seychelles relations Diplomatic relations between were established on 19 April 2006.
South Africa	1993	Armenia-South Africa relations Diplomatic relations between Armenia and South Africa were established on 23 June 1993. Armenia is represented in South Africa through its embassy in Cairo, Egypt. South Africa is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Kiev, Ukraine.
United States		See Armenia–United States relations The dissolution of the Soviet Union in December 1991 brought an end to the Cold War and created the opportunity for bilateral relations with the New Independent States (NIS) as they began a political and economic transformation. The U.S. recognized the independence of Armenia on 25 December 1991, and opened an embassy in Yerevan in February 1992. Armenia has an embassy in Washington, DC and a consulate-general in Los Angeles. United States has an embassy in Yerevan. See also: Armenian American
Uruguay	1992	See Armenia–Uruguay relations Armenia is represented in Uruguay through its embassy in Buenos Aires (Argentina) and an honorary consulate in Montevideo. Uruguay is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Moscow (Russia) and through a consulate in Yerevan. There are around 20,000 people of Armenian descent living in Uruguay. Uruguay was the first country to recognize the Armenian Genocide on 20 April 1965.
Venezuela	30 October 1993	See Armenia–Venezuela relations Armenia has an honorary consulate in Caracas Venezuela is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Moscow, Russia. There are around 4.000 people of Armenian descent living in Venezuela. Venezuelian parliament has recognized the Armenian Genocide.

See also

• List of diplomatic missions in Armenia
• List of diplomatic missions of Armenia
• Foreign relations of Nagorno-Karabakh
• Baku–Tbilisi–Ceyhan pipeline
• Visa requirements for Armenian citizens

References

•  This article incorporates public domain material from The World Factbook. CIA.
•  This article incorporates public domain material from U.S. Bilateral Relations Fact Sheets. United States Department of State.

External links

Argentina

• List of Treaties ruling the relations Argentina and Armenia (Argentine Foreign Ministry, in Spanish)

Canada

• Armenian embassy in Ottawa
• Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade about relations with Armenian

Chile

• Sassounian, Harut (16 June 2007). "Chile Proves Genocide Recognition is Based on Truth, Not Lobbying". Vol. 73, no. 24. Armenian Weekly.
• Chilean Senate: recognition of the Armenian Genocide (in Spanish only)

Czech

• Armenian embassy in London
• British Foreign and Commonwealth Office about relations with Armenia *British embassy in Yerevan

Denmark

• Danish Foreign Ministry: development program with Armenia

NATO

• Iskandaryan, Alexander:"NATO and Armenia: A Long Game of Complementarism" in the Caucasus Analytical Digest No. 5

International

• Khachatrian, Haroutiun: "Foreign Investments in Armenia: Influence of the Crisis and Other Peculiarities" in the Caucasus Analytical Digest No. 28