Armenia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) plan to deepen their collaboration in trade, tourism, technological development, and infrastructure projects. This was agreed upon during a meeting on December 17 between Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan and UAE Presidential Adviser on Diplomatic Affairs Anwar Gargash.
Both sides noted the positive trajectory of their bilateral relations and expressed readiness to expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest. Particular attention was given to exploring additional opportunities for trade and economic collaboration.
During the meeting, Minister Mirzoyan shared Yerevan’s vision for achieving stability and peace in the South Caucasus, emphasizing the economic prospects that could emerge from unblocking regional communications. The diplomats also exchanged views on recent developments in the Middle East.
Earlier, BMG reported that the UAE ranked as Armenia’s second-largest foreign trade partner. Trade turnover between the two countries increased 5.6 times in January–October this year compared to the same period in 2023, reaching approximately $4.9 billion. This surge, according to Armenia’s Statistical Committee, is primarily attributed to a sharp rise in Armenian exports to the UAE, with the majority consisting of re-exports of Russian gold and diamonds through Armenia to the UAE.
Specifically, Armenian exports to the UAE reached $4.8 billion in January–October 2024, a 5.9-fold increase compared to the same period in 2023, while imports amounted to just $66.3 million. The UAE’s share in Armenia’s foreign trade structure also significantly increased, rising from 5.7% last year to 18.8% during the January–October period of this year.
