On March 23, at a Parliamentary Standing Committee meeting and later at the briefing, Armenia’s Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan discussed humanitarian aid to Iran, strategic partnership with Iran, Armenian-Turkish dialogue, relations with Azerbaijan, domestic security, prisoner releases, and regional peace efforts.

The Foreign Minister of Armenia stated that Armenia had already sent humanitarian aid to Iran. Responding to a question from Kristine Vardanyan, an opposition MP from the Armenia bloc, Mirzoyan explained, "This was primarily medical supplies. And it could not have been otherwise." He added that authorities saw no need to publicly announce the aid.

During the same meeting, Mirzoyan emphasized that Armenia and Iran have reached an agreement to elevate bilateral relations to a de jure strategic level. "These relations have long been at the level of strategic partnership, but an agreement has now been reached to elevate them to a de jure strategic level," he stated.

Mirzoyan also outlined progress in Armenian-Turkish dialogue, highlighting ongoing discussions on scholarships for students from both countries. "Clear agreements already exist between Yerevan and Ankara, and their implementation is progressing. Moreover, the parties are discussing the possibility of establishing scholarships for each other's students," he said, noting that numerous meetings and contacts throughout 2025 have demonstrated a dynamic dialogue. The minister added that discussions are underway on the possible resumption of the Gyumri-Kars railway and related road services, with a joint working group having already held two meetings to inspect infrastructure.

Addressing domestic security and political concerns, Mirzoyan referred to Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's recent comments on elections and the potential for conflict. He criticized opposition figures promoting territorial ambitions and stated, "It is obvious that if people with such a mindset come to power, problems with our neighbors will immediately arise." On claims that his statements amounted to blackmail, he replied, "What's blackmail here? We're offering peace. Believe me, under different circumstances, it's not the success or development of the Republic of Armenia that would be in grave doubt, but its very existence as an independent state." He reiterated that the Armenian government has not initiated war, emphasizing that past conflicts resulted from over 30 years of unresolved issues and misguided political thinking.

On negotiations with Azerbaijan, Mirzoyan clarified that Baku is not demanding amendments to the Armenian Constitution. "I want to assure you that Azerbaijan is not demanding changes to the Armenian constitution," he stated. However, he noted that Baku has warned it will not sign a peace treaty if certain provisions remain, despite repeated assurances from Yerevan that the constitution contains no clauses problematic for Azerbaijan. He also addressed concerns about the return of displaced citizens, stressing the complexity of the process and the need for clear conditions.

Mirzoyan touched upon Armenia's cooperation with the National Security Service (NSS), distinguishing his involvement as an expert from the historical role of USSR-era agents. "Drawing parallels between a man who tried to help the NSS and a man who was an agent of the empire is inaccurate," he remarked.

On prisoner releases, Mirzoyan emphasized ongoing efforts to secure the freedom of Armenians held in Azerbaijan, including former leaders of Nagorno-Karabakh, and welcomed the recent release of four civilians. He stressed that such actions strengthen the peace process, though he acknowledged that numerous humanitarian issues, including missing persons, remain unresolved.

Regarding regional peace, Mirzoyan said Armenia seeks a rapid resolution around Iran and continues to assist Armenians in conflict-affected countries. He added that the government is prepared to subsidize travel costs for citizens seeking evacuation.

On international cooperation, he noted that Deputy Foreign Minister Vahan Kostanyan confirmed there is currently no set date for the completion of visa liberalization between Armenia and the European Union, though the process is moving quickly. Kostanyan highlighted that Armenia is the only country currently undergoing this process with the EU, focusing on migration policy, human rights protection, and border control reforms.

Mirzoyan further addressed hybrid threats, clarifying that such attacks, including disinformation campaigns, are a relatively new challenge for Armenia. While he criticized some domestic actors, he welcomed international support and noted that Armenia is willing to learn from the EU or Russia's experience in countering hybrid threats.

Finally, the minister highlighted cultural collaboration with Turkey, including the joint restoration of historic sites such as the Ani Bridge, and reaffirmed that diplomatic relations and border reopening remain achievable given the maturity of the dialogue.