YEREVAN (Realist English). Chair of Russia’s Federation Council Valentina Matviyenko met with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on June 6 in Yerevan as part of an official parliamentary delegation visit aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation across economic, humanitarian and regional platforms.
The talks, initially scheduled as a one-on-one meeting, extended well beyond their allotted time and continued in an expanded format, reflecting the depth and scope of the agenda.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Matviyenko described the dialogue with Pashinyan as “substantive, constructive and cordial,” emphasizing mutual recognition of the evolving security and economic context in the South Caucasus. “There is a clear understanding that the bilateral agenda must be updated in light of new realities on the ground,” she said.
The visit included events such as a session of the Russia-Armenia Inter-Parliamentary Commission and the 10th anniversary Regional Forum, reflecting Moscow’s interest in interregional cooperation. “More than 70 Russian regions are currently engaged with Armenia in various formats,” Matviyenko noted, “and 20 of them have already signed formal cooperation agreements.”
A key topic was economic engagement. According to Matviyenko, Pashinyan reaffirmed Armenia’s commitment to creating a favorable environment for Russian businesses, citing a stable investment climate and regulatory openness.
The cultural and educational dimension also featured prominently. Marking the UN-designated Russian Language Day — celebrated on June 6, the birthday of poet Alexander Pushkin — Matviyenko highlighted Armenia’s respect for Russian language and literature. “Several monuments to Pushkin stand in Armenia, and there is sincere appreciation of his work,” she said.
Russia and Armenia are also discussing the establishment of a new Russian school in Yerevan, backed by the Russian Embassy. Pashinyan expressed support for the project, which is currently in the site selection stage. Armenia also plans to launch a center for gifted students modeled after Russia’s Sirius initiative.
Matviyenko acknowledged, however, that Armenia has yet to ratify its membership in the International Organization for the Russian Language, which now includes six member states. “The Prime Minister promised to review this matter and give it momentum,” she said.
“The Armenian side has demonstrated genuine interest in expanding multifaceted cooperation with Russia. What matters now is to implement what we have agreed upon — and we are committed to that,” Matviyenko concluded.
