Yerevan hosts 5th Eurasian Research on Modern China and Eurasia  Conference

ArmInfo. The Crossroads of the Peace project model includes not only a security dimension, but  also communications, economic cooperation and cultural exchange. This makes Armenia an important player in the Eurasian region. Minister of Labor and Social Affairs of Armenia, Narek Mkrtchyan, announced on  December 8 at the opening of the 5th Eurasian Research on Modern China and Eurasia Conference, organized by the China-Eurasia Council for Political and Strategic Research foundation.

"This project is in line with the  Belt and Road Initiative. This is  not only a security priority for the Republic of Armenia, but also  has a regional and transformative impact. The project gives the small  countries of the region an opportunity to influence the formation of  channels in the Eurasian region," emphasized Narek Mkrtchyan.

During his welcoming remarks, the minister also called the event  unique in terms of geopolitical and economic events in the Eurasian  region.

Mkrtchyan stated that the focus of China's attention today is the  Belt and Road Initiative. In this vein, he noted that Armenia was one  of the first countries to support this initiative.  The head of the  Ministry of Social Labor also noted that since gaining independence,  Armenia and China have cooperated in various fields. "Social  protection is a new direction of interaction. Although China is a  large country and Armenia is a small country, however, both states  sometimes face similar challenges," Mkrtchyan noted.

In turn, Ambassador of China to Armenia Fan Yong  emphasized that the  Belt and Road Initiative originated by China, but its success depends  on many countries around the world.

In this vein, the Ambassador recalled that within the framework of  the project, cooperation has been established with different  countries on five continents and more than 30 international  organizations.

"Armenia is one of the first countries to respond to the initiative  and participate in joint construction programs. Trade between China  and Armenia has grown significantly. Over the past year alone, it has  increased by 30%, reaching $1.5 billion. Over 20 Armenian  organizations took part in Import-Export Forum recently held in  Shanghai. Major infrastructure programs are being implemented in  Armenia with the participation of China, such as the construction of  the North-South road. Overcoming language barriers and cultural  exchange also play an important role in the development of relations.  From this point of view, the Armenian- Chinese friendship has made an  important contribution to the development of interpersonal contacts,"  the ambassador noted.

According to him, constant cooperation has been established between  different cities and regions. "China's efforts are aimed at creating  a more inclusive, green and beautiful world with sustainable peace,  security and prosperity," the Chinese diplomat added.

The two-day event is attended by ambassadors, scientists, and  politicians from 20 countries. During the forum, 44 scientists and  diplomats will make speeches.

The China-Eurasia Council for Political and Strategic Research  foundation organized 4 international scientific conferences on this  topic. This conference will bring together a new international team  to publish a handbook on international relations between China and  Eurasia with the prestigious Routledge publishing house.