Deputy Minister of High-Tech Industry and Artificial Intelligence of the Republic of Armenia Tatev Aslanyan received a delegation from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), led by William Tompson, Head of the Eurasia Division in the OECD Global Relations and Co-operation Directorate.

During the meeting, the delegation representatives presented the work executed by the OECD in Armenia, ongoing programs, and recorded results.

Deputy Minister Tatev Aslanyan highly appreciated the OECD’s consistent support for Armenia and emphasized the continuity and expansion of cooperation with the organization, particularly in the development of high technologies, digitalization, and artificial intelligence (AI).

The sides discussed the development and implementation processes of Armenia's Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) policy, sectoral development indicators, and opportunities for applying international standards, paying special attention to digitalization and the integration of AI tools.

Tatev Aslanyan highlighted the vital role of digitalization and artificial intelligence in technological advancement and enhancing the efficiency of business processes. In this context, she underscored the importance of introducing innovative technologies into local companies—including SMEs—increasing AI literacy, and ensuring access to necessary infrastructure.

Addressing ongoing initiatives in this direction, the Deputy Minister emphasized the opportunity to ensure access to GPU computing resources for SMEs through Firebird, thereby contributing to their digitalization and the development of their innovative potential.

The prospects for developing a high-level startup ecosystem were also discussed, specifically in the fields of agricultural technologies (AgriTech), Deep Tech, and physical artificial intelligence.

The Deputy Minister highlighted the importance of expanding access to large-scale capital for local companies as a catalyst for corporate growth, enhancing competitiveness, and incentivizing businesses to continue operating in Armenia. In this context, the establishment of digitalization support centers and hubs, as well as ensuring the protection of private property, were also emphasized.

From the perspective of AI sector advancement, human capital development was highlighted. The necessity of developing both technical and non-technical professional skills, disseminating knowledge on artificial intelligence, and implementing relevant educational and training programs at various levels was underscored.

The Deputy Minister also presented the plan to establish a specialized Government Artificial Intelligence Office under the Ministry, aimed at coordinating and advancing policy in the sector.

The parties discussed prospects for developing Technology Transfer Offices in Armenia. The importance of expanding cooperation and dialogue with the OECD and European Union member states in this direction was emphasized in order to localize international best practices in Armenia. In this regard, the need to broaden access to EU member states' expertise, professional networks, and opportunities, as well as to ensure a high level of collaboration with leading European companies, was highlighted.

The sides touched upon further opportunities for cooperation, emphasizing the importance of continuing joint efforts in advancing Armenia's tech ecosystem, business digitalization, innovation promotion, and the responsible deployment of artificial intelligence.