Valentina Matvienko and Alen Simonyan Discussed Development of Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation

A meeting between Speaker of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation and Chairperson of the IPA CIS Council Valentina Matvienko and President of the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia Alen Simonyan took place in Moscow. The parties discussed the prospects for Armenian‑Russian inter‑parliamentary interaction and current issues on the bilateral agenda.

The Speaker of the Federation Council noted that parliamentarians from the two countries maintain constant contact and stressed that the tone of cooperation is set by President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan.

According to Valentina Matvienko, Armenia is Russia’s natural strategic partner. “We are interested in strengthening centuries‑old traditions of friendship. This serves the interests of our peoples and states and makes a significant contribution to building a peaceful and prosperous South Caucasus,” the Speaker of the Federation Council emphasized.

The Chairperson of the Federation Council stressed that Russia is effectively confirming its status as a reliable trade, economic, and investment partner for Armenia. She drew particular attention to the role of parliaments in resolving disputed issues.

Alen Simonyan noted that the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia is interested in dialogue and developing mutually beneficial cooperation across all areas in the long term.

During the conversation, progress on resolving “stalled” issues was discussed, including projects related to agreements in the field of interregional and intermunicipal cooperation.

The meeting also touched upon initiatives aimed at expanding humanitarian ties, cultural, and educational cooperation. The participants addressed regional issues.

The parties emphasized the important role of inter‑parliamentary ties in developing bilateral relations.

In a conversation with journalists, Valentina Matvienko described the meeting as constructive. “I thanked Alen Simonyan for his active participation in the IPA CIS work. This is an important and effective platform for inter‑parliamentary cooperation among CIS countries,” she said.

The Speaker of the Federation Council announced the readiness of Russian parliamentarians to participate as observers in Armenia’s parliamentary elections. “Of course, provided the Armenian side extends an invitation,” Valentina Matvienko clarified.