ARMENIA CELEBRATES RUSSIA YEAR

RIA Novosti, Russia
March 21 2005

MOSCOW, March 21 (RIA Novosti) – Vladimir Putin and Robert Kocharyan
have exchanged messages for the opening of the Year of the Russian
Federation in Armenia, the Kremlin press service reported Monday.

“Russia invariably attaches great importance to the consistent
strengthening of friendly relations with Armenia, its reliable ally
and strategic partner. I am convinced that the holding of the Year
of Russia will contribute to the further rapprochement of the two
countries, and to the development of friendship and direct dialogue
between our peoples,” Putin wrote in part.

“Events on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the Great Victory
will occupy a special place in this significant festival. This is a
tribute of respect to the exploit and courage of all those who were
side by side fighting against fascism,” he wrote.

Armenian President Robert Kocharyan’s message expressed similar
respect.

“The decision to announce 2005 as the Year of the Russian Federation
in the Republic of Armenia opens broad possibilities for the
further expansion of Armenian-Russian contacts. This initiative will
undoubtedly contribute to the full implementation of the political,
economic and cultural potential of cooperation between our fraternal
peoples. I would like to express confidence that the holding of the
Year of Russia in Armenia will make it possible to add new ideas and
projects to the agenda of Armenian-Russian cooperation,” Kocharyan
wrote.

“The Armenians love Russian art and are waiting impatiently for
meetings with representatives of Russian culture. Contacts between
representatives of science, education and business communities of
our countries, as well as contacts at the regional level could also
be of great practical importance.

“It is symbolic that the Year of Russia in Armenia has coincided with
the celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Victory over fascism.
This heroic page of our common history has tied the fates of our
peoples and brought them closer together,” Kocharyan wrote.