Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan attended the opening of the “Silicon Mountains 2025” technology summit, held under the theme “Anatomy of Artificial Intelligence.” The event brought together leading technological, scientific, and innovation figures from Armenia and around the world.
In his address, the Prime Minister welcomed the participants, thanked the organizers for the invitation, and highlighted the importance of such events in shaping public attitudes toward technology.
“Both in Armenia and globally, we are currently at a stage of forming attitudes toward technology. On the path to increasing the usefulness of technology, it is vital to foster the right understanding and perception among the public and make its benefits accessible to people,” Pashinyan said.
The Prime Minister noted that technology, as a phenomenon and process, has always accompanied civilization. “Technology has always existed and will continue to exist as a means to improve people’s lives and enhance their well-being. Although we often speak about challenges and threats posed by new technologies, this is not a new phenomenon — all technological advances throughout history have brought both opportunities and risks,” he remarked.
Referring to the statement that artificial intelligence and technology define the future of Armenia, Pashinyan said the same applies to every country in the world. “It is evident that the Government of Armenia’s policy is to support the development of technologies and the tech sector. I’ve often said, and it’s worth repeating, that our strategy to support technological development rests on three pillars — education, education, and again, education,” he emphasized.
Pashinyan added that alongside education, other factors such as infrastructure, sound regulations, and effective policies are also crucial. “But to develop good infrastructure, regulations, and policies, we once again need education — quality education at all levels,” he said.
Expanding on the point, the Prime Minister underlined that having a strong education system itself requires good policies, infrastructure, and regulations — all of which, in turn, depend on education. “Our conclusion, based on practical experience, is that everything begins and ends with education,” Pashinyan noted.
He acknowledged that while funding remains important, the foundation for progress lies in knowledge and learning. “Of course, money matters. But what do we need to have money? Again — education, education, and education. There may have been times when countries could rely on oil, gas, or gold. Today, however, even prosperity, employment, and competitiveness depend on one thing — education,” the Prime Minister stated.
Highlighting the growing role of technology in Armenia’s public education system, Pashinyan said, “This is the right path — one that will ensure our country’s development, security, prosperity, and sustainability. And for all of this, we need education — first, second, and third.”
Among the keynote speakers and special guests of the summit were Vincent Roche, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Analog Devices Inc., who is also the 2025 State Prize Laureate of Armenia for Global Contribution to High Technology; Noubar Afeyan, Founder and CEO of Flagship Pioneering and Co-founder and Chairman of Moderna; Andre Andonyan, President of Flagship Pioneering for the Asia-Pacific region and Strategic Advisor; Hovhannes Avoyan, Founder and CEO of Picsart; Adam Kablanian, Founder of Alexandrea Winery; Ivan Lesic, Technical Director for Mobile Networks in Central and Southern Europe at Nokia; Theodora Preda, Consultant at Plug & Play Tech Center; Vahe Andonians, Founder and CEO of Cognaize; and Hakob Hakobyan, Founder of Seaside Startup Summit.
