Statement by H.E. Paruyr Hovhannisyan, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of Armenia to the UN at the Ministerial session of the 10th Multi-stakeholder Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation for the Sustainable Development Goals

07 May, 2025

Distinguished Co-Chairs,

Excellences,

At the outset, I would like to thank the President of ECOSOC for bringing us together for this timely and meaningful exchange. Science-based and innovative solutions play a crucial role in accelerating SDG implementation, especially in developing countries, and those in special situations, notably LDCs, LLDCs and SIDS.

Hence, targeted support and increased international financial assistance to developing countries, including those in special situations, as well as middle-income countries, is crucial for addressing persistent digital divide and structural challenges, ensuring that all countries, regardless of their development level, can harness the transformative potential of STI to achieve the SDGs.

Armenia has a longstanding record of integrating STI into national development strategies and creating an enabling environment for the advancement of ICT industry in the country. These initiatives contributed to the increasing effectiveness of public governance, promoting economic development, advancing educational system and improving quality of life.

To further harness the benefits of STI, the Government of Armenia, with consortium of private companies, has established the “Engineering City” in Yerevan with the purpose of facilitating and accelerating the development of complex engineering solutions, providing full range of advanced equipment to all the resident companies.

Over the years, Armenia's startup ecosystem has experienced remarkable progress. Today Armenia is home to more than 1000 active startups, operating across diverse sectors, including artificial intelligence, fintech, healthtech, and digital media. It is no coincidence, that year-on-year GDP growth in the ICT sector in Armenia has been one of the highest among other sectors of economy, while 2023 was marked as one of the milestone years for investments in startups in Armenia, generating up to $216 million, showcasing the growing confidence of international investors in the country's tech potential.

Excellences,

The effective advancement of STI for sustainable development requires a collaborative, multi-stakeholder approach, sharing knowledge, experiences, and best practices among Member States, civil society, the private sector, academia, and the scientific community.

We look forward to engaging in open and effective deliberations with governments and multi-stakeholders, learning and sharing experiences on the solutions that could elevate inclusive and equitable STI development for all.

Thank you.

MFA RA
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