Ara Papyan clarification regarding U.S.-Armenia Strategic Partnership Commission

Արա Պապյան

Clarification Needed

Few individuals in Armenian history have contributed as much as I have to the development of Armenian-American relations. For decades, I have worked tirelessly on this issue, publishing hundreds of scholarly and journalistic articles, delivering thousands of speeches and lectures across the globe. I have held numerous meetings and discussions with representatives of the U.S. executive and legislative branches. Moreover, I have published critical archival documents related to Armenian-American relations, including President Woodrow Wilson's Arbitral Award on the Armenian-Turkish border (in its original English text and translations into three languages). I was also the first staff member of the U.S. Desk at Armenia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, starting in November 1991.

All of this was undertaken solely out of personal conviction—often without remuneration and, at times, at my own expense. Instead of gratitude, however, I have frequently faced slander and persecution.

I share this to underscore that few have been as deeply committed to strengthening Armenian-American relations as I have. Consequently, few are as well-positioned to discuss these relations objectively and substantively.

The Importance of Signing the Charter

First, I welcome any effort, agreement, or form of cooperation that aims to advance Armenian-American relations. In this regard, I particularly commend the signing of the Strategic Partnership Commission Charter in Washington on January 14, 2025.

However, I find it necessary to provide some clarifications, as it is evident that the authorities are attempting to frame this routine event as a political triumph.

Nature of the Document

To clarify, the signed document—the Strategic Partnership Commission Charter—is a non-binding agreement. It is not a formal bilateral treaty establishing a strategic partnership. Rather, it is a procedural framework outlining the operation of an interagency working group, referred to as a commission.

The U.S. Secretary of State articulated the purpose of this document precisely, stating: “We’re establishing our U.S.-Armenia Strategic Partnership Commission.”

In other words, the document is designed to elevate the level of Armenian-American strategic dialogue (a highly desirable goal) and formalize its structure.

Historical Precedents of Higher-Level Armenian-American Relations

It is essential to note that Armenian-American relations have been conducted at higher and broader levels in the past. For example, through the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), Armenia received $235 million in annual assistance beginning in 2006.

Military Cooperation

Under NATO’s Partnership for Peace program (since 1994), Armenia has engaged in substantial military cooperation with the United States.

Conclusion

While it is understandable that Nikol Pashinyan has entered an election campaign, it is inappropriate to politicize a domain as vital as Armenian-American relations. Events of this nature should be evaluated with objectivity and presented without exaggeration.

The deepening of Armenian-American relations demands a responsible and strategic approach. It must remain a cornerstone of international cooperation, not a tool for domestic political maneuvering.

January 15, 2025, London