United States Doubles Funding to Armenia, Increases Support to $250 Million

The United States has significantly increased its financial assistance to Armenia, more than doubling the previous support amount from $120 million to $250 million. This increase in aid comes as part of an amended agreement between the two countries, aiming to boost Armenia’s development and build greater cooperation. The agreement was signed by Armenia's Deputy Prime Minister, Mher Grigoryan, and John Allelo, Director of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in Armenia.

The new deal not only increases financial support but also broadens the scope of projects that the two countries will work on together. According to the Armenian government, these efforts will focus on crucial areas such as managing natural disasters, improving cybersecurity, enhancing food and energy security, strengthening regional cooperation and trade, advancing democratic processes, and promoting inclusive economic growth.

One of the key aspects of this new agreement is the widening range of areas where the two nations will collaborate. Disaster risk management will be a top priority, helping Armenia to better prepare for and respond to natural disasters. Cybersecurity will also receive more attention, an important step in protecting Armenia’s digital infrastructure from potential threats.

In addition to disaster preparedness and cybersecurity, the deal will focus on food and energy security. Ensuring a stable food supply and securing energy sources are critical for any country, and the US is lending its expertise to help Armenia strengthen these vital sectors. The partnership will also address regional cooperation and trade, helping Armenia to forge stronger economic ties with its neighbors and beyond.

Another key area is democratic governance. The USAID programs will support efforts to strengthen democratic processes in Armenia, helping to build institutions that are transparent, accountable, and responsive to citizens' needs. These initiatives align with the broader US goal of promoting democracy worldwide.

Inclusive economic development is also a major focus, aiming to ensure that the benefits of economic growth reach all segments of Armenian society. By encouraging equitable economic policies and practices, the partnership seeks to uplift marginalized communities and ensure that Armenia’s progress benefits everyone.

During the signing of the agreement, Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan spoke on the importance of not just financial support but the democratic values and innovative ideas that come with US assistance. He said that these contributions help Armenia implement meaningful reforms that can improve the quality of life for its citizens.

“What is important for Armenia is not only financial support, but also democratic values, creative ideas, and developed business culture promoted as a result of our joint programs. The investment of the latter in our country enables us to carry out fundamental reforms and increase the quality of life of the citizens,” Grigoryan said. He also thanked the US for supporting Armenia’s ambitious reform agenda, which includes efforts to strengthen the economy, governance, and public services.

The USAID/Armenia Mission Director, John Allelo, emphasized the US commitment to Armenia’s success. He stated that this amendment demonstrates the US’s long-term investment in the partnership and its desire to see Armenia develop and prosper.

“The US work with the Armenian government and ministries has a crucial role in achieving its shared goals,” Allelo said. By increasing financial assistance and expanding the scope of joint projects, the US is playing an essential role in helping Armenia meet its development goals.

This expanded cooperation between the US and Armenia is seen as a testament to the strong ties between the two nations. The US has been a long-standing partner of Armenia, supporting its transition to a market-based economy and its democratic reforms since Armenia gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.

As the agreement moves forward, both governments will continue to work closely to ensure that the projects and initiatives funded by this partnership bring tangible benefits to the people of Armenia.