In Damascus, on April 8, Minister Oskanian met with Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Moualem. During that meeting, the two spoke at length about bilateral as well as regional matters. They specifically focused on cooperation in international forums, educational and economic exchange, as well as institutional cooperation. They also spoke at length about the Nagorno Karabakh negotiation process, Armenia-Turkey relations, as well as the situation in Iraq and other matters in both regions.

Earlier in the day, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad also received the Armenian delegation. Minister Oskanian informed him about political and economic developments within Armenia and in the region. President Assad expressed his appreciation at the traditionally warm relations between Armenians and Syrians and said that should serve as a foundation for deepening ties, especially in the economic sphere.

The Minister's Damascus visit concluded with a reception at the embassy, attended by representatives of community organizations and religious leaders.

On Sunday, the Minister will be in Aleppo at the 100th anniversary celebration of the Armenian General Benevolent Union and the 75th anniversary celebration of the Armenian Youth Association.