Armenia Celebrates 35th Independence Anniversary

Armenia, a nation in the Caucasus region boasting a rich history and culture, marked the 35th anniversary of its independence this year, having gained sovereignty in 1991.

Four guests pose with wine glasses in front of the Armenian flag at the Armenia Independence Day reception

Armenia is known for its beautiful landscapes, excellent cuisine, and appeal as a tourist destination. Its capital, Yerevan, is often called the “Pink City,” and many Japanese visitors have been captivated by its beauty. Armenia’s charms have recently garnered significant attention in Japan, with the profile of Armenian wine, in particular, rising noticeably.

Two guests smile for a photo at the Armenia Independence Day reception, with wine glasses on a nearby table

With a winemaking history said to be the oldest in the world, Armenia is a producer of high-quality wines and is home to outstanding wineries. At FOODEX Japan this past March, the Armenian presence doubled in scale compared to the previous year, with numerous wineries participating. Furthermore, the Japan-Armenia Tax Treaty (Convention between Japan and the Republic of Armenia for the Elimination of Double Taxation with Respect to Taxes on Income and the Prevention of Tax Evasion and Avoidance) was signed last December. This development is expected to further boost bilateral economic exchange, encompassing tourism and food culture—symbolized by the country’s wine.

Four guests hold wine glasses and smile at the Armenia 35th Independence Anniversary reception

Armenia has also built close ties with Japan in the IT sector. Last year, TUMO—an Armenian-originated IT education hub for young people—opened a center in Gunma Prefecture. TUMO is a globally acclaimed talent development program that fuses digital technology with creativity; this joint initiative between Armenia and Japan is expected to contribute significantly to cultivating creative digital talent in Japan.

Two men in dark suits smile together at the Armenia Independence Day reception

The people of Armenia and Japan are united by a deeply humanitarian bond forged through shared memories of disaster and recovery. In 1988, Armenia was struck by a massive earthquake. Japan supported the country’s restoration and recovery efforts through measures such as emergency aid. While the memory of that support remained vivid, Japan was hit by the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011. In turn, Armenia offered heartwarming support and expressions of solidarity, encouraging those affected by the disaster. It is often said that a friend in need is a friend indeed. Armenia and Japan are truly such friends, having cultivated a deep and enduring friendship over the years.

Two women pose cheek to cheek in a friendly embrace at the Armenia Independence Day reception

Four guests, including a woman in a blue dress, pose with glasses at the Armenia Independence Day reception

Relations have grown increasingly close in the diplomatic sphere as well. Last year, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of the Republic of Armenia visited Japan in September, and Hakob Arshakyan, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia, also visited the country during the same year.

A man in a navy suit speaks at the podium beside the Armenian flag at the Armenia Independence Day reception

In 2027, Armenia and Japan will mark the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. At the opening of the Independence Day reception, H.E. Ms. Monica Simonyan, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Armenia to Japan, stated emphatically. “Armenia is determined to further expand and deepen its partnership with Japan across all fields—from high technology, innovation, and renewable energy to education and beyond.”

A woman in a white jacket delivers remarks at the podium beside the Armenian flag at the Independence Day reception

Guests stand at a high table listening to the program at the Armenia Independence Day reception

This multifaceted partnership is visibly flourishing. Sharing the same values and a commitment to democratic reform, Armenia and Japan will undoubtedly continue to deepen their friendship.