DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS WITH ARMENIA

That this House marks the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the UK and the Republic of Armenia, and commends the choice made by the people of Armenia when they declared independence from the then Soviet Union; supports the government and people of Armenia in their promotion of democracy, the rule of law and human rights, and welcomes the numerous high-level reciprocal visits while noting that British-Armenian political dialogue has developed dramatically, reinforced by parliamentary diplomacy and educational and cultural co-operation; welcomes co-operation across a range of issues, such as consolidation of international security and the fight against terrorism while saluting Armenia's participation in a number of peacekeeping operations; and notes that the UK is home to a sizable Armenian community that contributes greatly and serves as a bridge between two friendly states.