The solemn ceremony of the groundbreaking of the new Embassy compound of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) took place in Yerevan on Wednesday. The event was attended by Armenian FM Edward Nalbandian, the PRC Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs Li Huilai, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of China to Armenia Tian Erlong, Yerevan Mayor Taron Margarian, and other officials.

The construction of the new Embassy building with the area of 40,000 sq. m –  the second biggest in the Eurasian region after Russia – will last two years. The building was designed by a Chinese company, while the construction works are implemented jointly with the Armenian side.

In his remarks Li Huilai stressed that Armenia and China are geographically far apart, yet the two peoples have traditionally enjoyed friendly relations.

“In 2015 when the President of the Republic of Armenia paid an official visit to China the President of the two countries outlined the milestone of Armenian-Chinese relations. As a brotherly, friendly state and a reliable partner to Armenia China will continue developing relations with Armenia,” the Chinese official said.

He also expressed hope the construction works will be completed within the set timelines.