The panel discussion “Critical Minerals, Semiconductors, and the South Caucasus as an Investment Frontier” was held within the framework of the Yerevan Dialogue 2026, co-hosted by Enterprise Armenia and Concordia, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, and experts to explore emerging opportunities in strategic sectors.
The panel discussion was moderated by Gohar Abajyan, CEO of Enterprise Armenia of Armenia, and brought together John Vonglis, Chairman of the Strategic Advisory Board and Executive Director of Global Government Affairs of Nano Nuclear Energy of the United States, Ruben Simonyan, Deputy Minister of High-Tech Industry of Armenia, Vinay Chawla, Office Director of the Special Envoy for Peace Missions of the United States, Aram Salatian, President of the Engineering Association of Armenia, Yervant Zorian, CTO and Fellow of Synopsys Armenia; and Aleksandr Yesayan, Co-founder and CEO of Firebird AI of Armenia.
The discussion examined the growing significance of critical minerals and advanced technologies in shaping global economic and geopolitical dynamics. Participants analyzed how supply chains for semiconductors and strategic resources are becoming increasingly central to national security, industrial policy, and international competition.
Particular attention was devoted to Armenia’s potential to integrate into global supply chains, supported by its investment climate, technological capabilities, and expanding innovation ecosystem. Participants also highlighted ongoing initiatives in the high-tech sector, including large-scale infrastructure and data-driven projects, as well as emerging opportunities for international cooperation. The discussion further underscored the rising importance of the South Caucasus as an emerging investment destination and emphasized the need to align economic development strategies with global technological and industrial trends.
