Armenian FM visits Australia

Armenian FM Edward Nalbandian was on an official visit to Australia.On Aug. 13, in Canberra, the Armenian FM held talks with his Australian counterpart Robert John Carr.The Australian FM welcomed his Armenian counterpart, saying that his visit is a good opportunity to upgrade bilateral relations. Mr Bob Carr stated his intention to contribute to this process.The Australian FM pointed out friendly ties with Armenia due to the Armenian community's contribution to the country's development. Australia plans to intensify bilateral relations, Mr Bob Carr said.The Armenian FM expressed his gratitude for an invitation and warm reception. He noted that the Armenian and Australian FMs have in recent years had about ten meetings. Minister Nalbandian pointed out a high level of bilateral dialogue, saying the main aim of his visit is to reach practical agreements on expanding bilateral ties in various areas.In the context of bilateral relations, the sides pointed out formation of a legal framework, bilateral consultations, closer cooperation within international agencies, development of economic and cultural ties.In discussing international problems, the sides pointed out similar approaches to many of the problems. Ministers Edward Nalbandian and Bob Carr exchanged views in involvement in peacekeeping missions.The Armenian FM informed his Australian counterpart of the Nagorno-Karabakh peace process. He thanked Mr Bob Carr for his contribution to recognition of the Armenian Genocide when Prime Minister of New South Wales.
Following the meeting, the Armenian and Australian FM signed the first bilateral document, a memorandum on consultations.The Australian FM accepted his Armenian counterpart's invitation to visit Armenia and stated his intention to visit Armenia's capital in the first half of next year.The talks continued in the presence of Australian MPs and representatives of the local Armenian community.The same day, the Armenian FM held a meeting with Peter Neil Slipper, Speaker of the Australian House of Representatives. The sides exchanged views on cooperation. Minister Nalbandian noted that Armenia attaches high importance to parliamentary cooperation.The Armenian FM presented Armenia's foreign policy priorities and the country's steps to settle regional problems.Minister Edward Nalbandian also held a meeting with the group of friendship with Armenia, Parliament of Australia. Chairman of the group Mr Geoff Lyons and Vice-Chairman Joe Hockey presented their contribution to the de velopment of bilateral relations, recognition of the Armenian Genocide and group's activities.The Armenian FM thanked the Australian MPs for their pro-Armenian activities and presented Armenia's policy in the Caucasus.Minister Edward Nalbandian was also hosted by the Australian Institute of International Affairs (AIIA). He delivered a speech on Armenia's foreign policy. The Armenian FM's speech was followed by numerous question concerning developments in the Caucasus.On Aug. 12, in Sydney, Minister Edward Nalbandian visited the Armenian Apostolic Church of Holy Resurrection of Sydney and attended a religious service.On Aug. 12 evening, the Armenian FM held a meeting with about 400 representatives of the local Armenian community and answered the attendees' questions.   Read more... (481 words)

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