On September 13, 2024, Ambassador Lilit Makunts was hosted at the Middle East Institute (MII), where she participated in a discussion with the researchers of the MII's Black Sea Program.

Three of the four researchers presented the results of their research on the normalization of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan, one on Romania's defense and military industry, and the possible cooperation between Armenia and Romania in this field. Dr. Iulia-Sabina Joja, head of the Black Sea Program, conducted the discussion and question-and-answer session between the ambassador and the researchers.

Ambassador Makunts expressed gratitude for presenting the research results. Emphasizing the Armenian government's commitment to establishing long-term peace and stability in the region, he welcomed the latter's contribution to deepening the understanding of regional developments, especially in the context of the challenges in the South Caucasus and Black Sea regions.

Funded by the U.S. Department of State, the Black Sea Program supports American researchers researching the Black Sea region. Through visits to the area's countries and cooperation with US-based regional experts, the Program aims to deepen the understanding of the region's strategic importance and contribute to U.S. policy toward it. The Program also enables researchers to visit countries in the area based on their research topics.

Founded in 1946, the Middle East Institute is Washington, D.C.'s oldest think tank dedicated exclusively to Middle East studies. It offers expert policy analysis, educational initiatives, and professional development programs and serves as a hub for the region's arts and culture.