Armenian, Russian leaders praise ties ahead of Russia’s year in Armenia

Interfax news agency
21 Mar 05

Moscow, 21 March: Russian President Vladimir Putin and Armenian
President Robert Kocharyan have exchanged letters on the occasion
of the opening of the “Year of the Russian Federation” in Armenia,
the press service of the Kremlin has said.

“Russia always attaches special importance to the consistent
strengthening of friendly relations with Armenia, which is Russia’s
reliable ally and strategic partner. I am convinced that the Year of
Russia in Armenia will bring the two countries closer together and
promote the development of friendship and direct dialogue between our
peoples. A special role in the programme of this landmark event will
be played by the celebrations of the 60th anniversary of the Great
Victory. This is a tribute of respect to the feat and courage of all
those who fought against fascism,” President Putin’s address says.

“The decision to announce 2005 the year of the Russian Federation
in the Republic of Armenia opens up extensive opportunities for
broadening Armenian-Russian relations even further. This initiative
will undoubtedly facilitate the realization of the political, economic
and cultural cooperation potential between our fraternal peoples. I
would like to express my confidence that the Year of Russia in Armenia
will enable us to supplement the Armenian-Russian cooperation agenda
with new ideas and projects,” the Armenian president said in his
address.

“People in Armenia treat Russian arts with particular admiration and
look forward to meetings with Russian artists. Relations between
representatives of science and education, business communities of
our countries and contacts at the level of regions are of special
practical importance. It is symbolic that the Year of Russia in
Armenia coincides with the celebrations of the 60th anniversary of
the victory over fascism. This heroic part of our history has tied
the fates of our peoples together.”