MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF THE REPUBLIC OF ARMENIA
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PRESS AND INFORMATION DEPARTMENT
375010 Telephone: +3741. 544041 ext 202
Fax: +3741. .562543
Email: [email protected]:
PRESS RELEASE
10 October 2004
Minister Oskanian Receives Norway’s Jan Petersen
On 10 October, Foreign Minister Oskanian received Foreign Minister
of the Kingdom of Norway, Chairman of the Committee of Ministers of
the Council of Europe Jan Petersen who is on a regional visit to the
countries of the South Caucasus.
At the meeting, the parties explored issues of bilateral relations
and common interest emphasizing development of economic cooperation
and creation of a contractual outline to this end. Minister Oskanian
proposed to explore the possibility of conducting a business forum
and amplifying cultural cooperation between the two countries.
In the context of European integration, the parties discussed the
progress of democratic reforms in Armenia. The Minister briefed his
counterpart on Armenia’s steps towards fulfillment of its commitments
vis-a-vis the Council of Europe highlighting, particularly, the
constitutional reform and a new electoral code.
During the meeting, the parties exchanged views on the regional
issues. Upon Minister Petersen’s request, Minister Oskanian provided
a detailed briefing on the current stage of Nagorno Karabagh conflict
settlement process and Armenia’s position on the issue.
The parties also discussed prospects of normalizing Armenia – Turkey
relations and stressed the importance of EU’s positive contribution
to this end.
At the end of the meeting, Minister Oskanian expressed is deep
appreciation for the importance of Minister Petersen’s visit both in
the context of the European extent of Armenia’s foreign policy and in
terms of development of bilateral, political, and economic relations.
The agenda of the two-day visit includes meetings with several
high-ranking officials of Armenia. The Minister will also visit the
Holy See of St. Etchmiadzin and Yerevan’s Cilicia district with its
new houses built for the refugees. The Minister also plans to meet
with representatives of Armenia’s political parties.