YEREVAN (Noyan Tapan)–An Iranian delegation headed by Foreign Minister Kamal Harazi arrived in Yerevan on July 9.
Armenian President Robert Kocharian and the Iranian foreign minister discussed prospects for Armenian-Iranian cooperation. Special emphasis was laid on the further development of economic relations. It was decided that the basis for building a productive international relation between the two countries and people is their deeply interwoven historical roots.
The sides also exchanged views on regional issues–including the Karabakh settlement. They agreed that cooperation is essential to establish peace and stability in the region.
Kharazi handed Iranian President Mohammad Hatani’s invitation to Armenian President Robert Kocharian to pay an official visit to Iran
Kharazi also met with Armenian Foreign Minister Vardan Oskanian Monday. Both sides expressed the satisfaction with the current bilateral relations–emphasizing the need for further development.
Both ministers addressed various issues of regional concern. Kharazi informed Oskanian about the latest incident on the Iranian-Turkish border–emphasizing the restrained and responsible stance of Iran. Oskanian outlined the current state of the Karabakh peace process to the Iranian guest as well as prospects of a peaceful resolution.
The officials also discussed the possibility of building an Iran-Armenia gas pipeline–stressing the importance of the facility for the region.
Both sides agreed that it is in their best interests to arrange meetings on different levels–including conferences–scientific seminars and workshops with different countries of the region–as part of the "Dialogue of Civilizations" Initiative.