On 10 October, Foreign Minister Oskanian received Foreign Minister of the Kingdom of Norway, Chairman of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe Jan Petersen who is on a regional visit to the countries of the South Caucasus.

At the meeting, the parties explored issues of bilateral relations and common interest emphasizing development of economic cooperation and creation of a contractual outline to this end. Minister Oskanian proposed to explore the possibility of conducting a business forum and amplifying cultural cooperation between the two countries.

In the context of European integration, the parties discussed the progress of democratic reforms in Armenia. The Minister briefed his counterpart on Armenia’s steps towards fulfillment of its commitments vis-à-vis the Council of Europe highlighting, particularly, the constitutional reform and a new electoral code.

During the meeting, the parties exchanged views on the regional issues. Upon Minister Petersen’s request, Minister Oskanian provided a detailed briefing on the current stage of Nagorno Karabagh conflict settlement process and Armenia’s position on the issue.

The parties also discussed prospects of normalizing Armenia – Turkey relations and stressed the importance of EU’s positive contribution to this end.

At the end of the meeting, Minister Oskanian expressed is deep appreciation for the importance of Minister Petersen’s visit both in the context of the European extent of Armenia’s foreign policy and in terms of development of bilateral, political, and economic relations.

The agenda of the two-day visit includes meetings with several high-ranking officials of Armenia. The Minister will also visit the Holy See of St. Etchmiadzin and Yerevan’s Cilicia district with its new houses built for the refugees. The Minister also plans to meet with representatives of Armenia’s political parties.