Khaberni - Armenia and the United States, on Monday, agreed to cooperate in the field of nuclear energy for civilian purposes, at a time when Washington seeks to strengthen its relations with a close ally, previously affiliated with Russia, following its mediation in establishing a peace agreement in the South Caucasus a few months ago.
During a two-day visit to Armenia, J.D. Vance, the American vice president, and Nikol Pashinyan, the Armenian prime minister, signed a statement regarding the nuclear agreement.
The officials stated that they had completed negotiations on what is known as the 123 Agreement, which allows the United States to legally license the transfer of nuclear technology and equipment to other countries.
Vance noted that the agreement would allow for initial American exports valued up to 5 billion dollars to Armenia, in addition to long-term fuel and maintenance contracts worth 4 billion dollars.
Pashinyan said at a joint press conference with Vance, "This agreement will open a new chapter in consolidating the partnership between Armenia and the United States in the energy sector."
For a long time, Armenia has heavily relied on Russia and Iran for its energy supplies, but it is currently considering offers from American, Russian, Chinese, French, and South Korean companies to build a new nuclear reactor to replace the Metsamor Nuclear Power Plant, which was built by the Russians and is the only plant in the country and is considered outdated.
No company has been selected yet, but Monday's announcement paves the way for choosing an American project.
This is likely to deal a blow to Russia, which considers the South Caucasus as a region where it exerts its influence, an influence that has waned due to its attack on Ukraine.
Vance's visit comes six months after the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan signed a deal at the White House, which is seen as the first step towards peace after a conflict that lasted about 40 years.
Vance said: "We are not only making peace for Armenia, but also bringing real prosperity to both Armenia and the United States."
The White House stated that Vance is scheduled to visit Azerbaijan on Wednesday and Thursday.
