Armenia has so far been heavily dependent on Russia and Iran for its energy supply. The USA wants to change this through a new agreement.
rtr | The USA and Armenia have agreed to cooperate on the civilian use of nuclear power, thereby strengthening their relations. US Vice President JD Vance and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan signed a statement to this effect on Monday in the Armenian capital Yerevan.
“This agreement will open a new chapter in the deepening energy partnership between Armenia and the United States,” Pashinyan said at a joint press conference.
The so-called 123 Agreement allows the USA to legally export nuclear technology and equipment to Armenia. Vance estimated the volume of initial US exports at up to $5 billion. There are also long-term contracts for fuel and maintenance worth another four billion dollars.
The former Soviet republic of Armenia has so far been heavily dependent on Russia and Iran for its energy supply. The government in Yerevan is currently examining offers to build a new reactor to replace the aging Mezamor power plant, which was still built by Russia. The offers come from the USA, Russia, China, France and South Korea. A final decision has not yet been made. However, the agreement is seen as an important step for possible US involvement, which is likely to further weaken Russia’s traditionally strong influence in the South Caucasus.
Vance’s two-day visit follows a peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijanwhich was signed at the White House six months ago. The US Vice President also promotes the “Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity” (Tripp). This planned 43-kilometer-long corridor through southern Armenia is intended to connect Azerbaijan directly with its exclave Nakhichevan and thus with its ally Türkiye.
The route would better connect Asia and Europe while avoiding Russia and Iran. “We are not just creating peace for Armenia,” Vance said. “We are also creating real prosperity for Armenia and the United States together.” Following his stay in Yerevan, Vance is expected in Azerbaijan on Wednesday and Thursday.
Together for a free press
As a cooperative, we belong to our readers. And our journalism is not only 100% non-corporate, but also accessible free of charge. We make all articles freely available, without a paywall. Especially in these times, classifications and information must be accessible to everyone. Our readers don’t have to pay anything, but they know that critical, independent journalism doesn’t emerge from nothing. We are very grateful for that. So that we can continue to do our journalism tomorrow, we need more support. Our next goal: 50,000 – and with your participation we can do it. Set an example for the taz and for the future of our journalism. With just 5 euros you are there!
Support now