ARMENIA, RUSSIAN PRESIDENTS EXCHANGE MESSAGES
ArmenPress
March 21 2005
MOSCOW, MARCH 21, ARMENPRESS: Vladimir Putin and Robert Kocharian
have exchanged today messages in connection with the opening of the
Year of the Russian Federation in Armenia, RIA Novosti reported,
citing the Kremlin press service.
“Russia 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 Kocharian’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,” Kocharian 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,” Kocharian wrote.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress