The Minister welcomed the delegation and expressed his appreciation for the work and support of the US Congress on Armenian issues. He stressed the importance of Armenia-US bilateral relations and US asssitance to Armenia¹s development. The Minister explained that the Armenia-US agenda is broad, and covers economic, political, security and other concerns, and that the US Congress has played a major role in defining this agenda. He stressed the need to terminate the Jackson-Vanik amendment¹s application to Armenia, to better utilize Armenia¹s GSP status, to begin talks on a free trade regime.

He explained that the continuation of US assistance to Armenia, at its traditionally significant levels, is critical to sustaining the current high level of economic growth in Armenia ­ the highest in the CIS and Europe.

Members of the delegation inquired about the Nagorno Karabagh resolution process. The Minister explained that Armenians are committed to finding a peaceful and lasting solution which guarantees Nagorno Karabagh¹s status. He explained that the ceasefire is based largely on the existence of a balance of power between the two sides and asked for equal US military assistance to the two countries in order to maintain that balance, and in accordance with the terms of the 907 waiver.

The visitors also asked about Armenia¹s relations with its various neighbors. Minister Oskanian explained Armenia¹s adherence to the principle of complementarity.

The group is in Armenia at the invitation of the Armenian Assembly of America.