The bilateral relations between Italy, Armenia are historical, Italian President Sergio Mattarella stated today in Yerevan during the joint press statement with Armenian President Armen Sarkissian, summing up the talks in the narrow format.
As one example of partnership, President Mattarella referred to the cooperation of Armenian and Italian militaries in Lebanon in the scope of peacekeeping mission.
“We are pleased we have achieved the cooperation of such a scale. An exhibition will open tomorrow in Yerevan to showcase our cultural ties. This type of events come to express our friendship. I am hopeful the cultural center that is set to open tomorrow will further strengthen our cultural relations and help Armenia to preserve its historical heritage,” the Italian president noted, adding a Memorandum of Cooperation between Science and Education ministries of the two countries is to be signed as well.
Speaking of the Nagorno Karabakh issue, President Mattarella said: “Italy backs the OSCE Minsk Group efforts aimed at peaceful settlement of the conflict. As the Chair of the OSCE, we will exert every effort for the peace talks to start and look for political solution not a military one based on the principles of the Minsk Group.”
The Italian president next pointed to the need of the swift ratification of the EU-Armenia Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
“Armenia can always rely on Italy’s backing and friendship,” Sergio Mattarella concluded.