ITAR-TASS, Russia
Dec 1 2006

Fradkov begins talks with Armenian PM

MOSCOW, December 1 (Itar-Tass) – – A visit of Armenian Prime Minister
Andranik Margaryan will become a milestone in the development of ties
between Russia and Armenia, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Fradkov
said opening talks with his Armenian counterpart.

`I’m pleased with the opportunity to discuss issues of
Russian-Armenian cooperation,’ Fradkov said. `I know that the chief
aim of your visit is participate in the closing ceremony of the Year
of Armenia in Russia due to held in St. Petersburg. In Moscow, You
also have a saturated programme.’

Fradkov offered to discuss topical problems focussing `first of all
on trade and economic ties.’

For his part, Andranik Margaryan expressed confidence that `the Year
of Armenia has promoted the intensification of the political and
economic dialogue and made it possible to expand bilateral
interaction.’