Historic Direct Flights Between Armenia and China Launched: A New Chapter in Bilateral Relations

Direct flights between Armenia and China were officially launched on Wednesday, marking the first-ever direct air connection between the two nations. The new route, operating between Urumqi and Yerevan, represents a significant step forward in the relationship between Armenia and China. The inaugural flight was welcomed with a ceremonial reception at Yerevan's Zvartnots International Airport, symbolizing the beginning of a new era in bilateral ties.

Gnel Sanosyan, Armenia's Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure, called it a "historic" moment for both countries. Speaking to reporters at the airport, Sanosyan said that establishing direct air communication with China is the result of a long-term, consistent policy aimed at strengthening ties between the two nations.

"This route is in great demand, and it will make life easier and save a lot of time for people who are going to fly from Armenia to China or vice versa," Sanosyan stated. The direct flights are expected to significantly reduce travel time, providing a convenient and efficient option for travelers between the two countries.

Chen Ming, the Chargé d'Affaires ad interim of the Chinese embassy in Armenia, also spoke at the event, underscoring the significance of this new air route. He described the launch of direct flights as a "new chapter" in the friendly relations between Armenia and China, one that will further encourage cultural exchange, tourism, and economic cooperation.

"Direct flights create an air bridge and connect two continents," Chen Ming noted. "This creates opportunities for mutual visits and preconditions for the development of relations in economy, culture, and tourism. Armenia is an important partner of China, an active participant of the One Belt One Road project in Transcaucasia, and one of the first countries to join the project."

Chen Ming's remarks highlight the broader strategic importance of the new route, as it aligns with China's One Belt One Road initiative, which seeks to enhance connectivity and cooperation across Asia and beyond.

The introduction of direct flights is also expected to have a positive impact on trade and economic ties between Armenia and China. Ye Daan, Deputy General Manager of the Xinjiang Branch of China Southern Airlines, expressed confidence that the new flights will facilitate greater business interactions and market expansion between the two countries.

"Residents of both countries will be able to travel from one country to another in just five hours," Ye Daan said. "We hope that the business representatives of the two countries will actively participate in the expansion of the markets."

The direct flight connection is anticipated to strengthen economic ties by making it easier for business professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs to travel between Armenia and China. This, in turn, could lead to increased trade, investment, and joint ventures, further bolstering the economic relationship between the two nations.

Tourism is another area expected to benefit from the launch of direct flights. In the first six months of this year alone, approximately 11,500 Chinese tourists visited Armenia, marking a 110% increase compared to the same period last year. This surge in tourism is partly attributed to the liberalization of visa regimes between the two countries in recent years.

With direct flights now in operation, tourism companies in both Armenia and China are optimistic about the potential for even stronger tourism ties. The new route offers a more convenient travel option for tourists, which is likely to lead to an increase in the number of visitors between the two countries.

Representatives of tourism companies have expressed their belief that the conditions are now ideal for strengthening tourism ties between Armenia and China. The direct flights not only shorten travel time but also make it easier for tourists to explore the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of both nations.