Armenia's Foreign Minister visited Norway

During an official visit to Norway on 29 January 2010 by HE Mr Edward Nalbandian, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia, political talks were held with Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.  The Ministers addressed a broad spectrum of topics, ranging from bilateral relations to the regional situation in the South Caucasus as well as European integration and co-operation and other international issues of mutual interest.

Reflecting a shared ambition to further develop bilateral relations, the Ministers agreed to intensify political dialogue, including through bilateral consultations between the Foreign Ministries, to consider expanding the legal framework of cooperation and to explore new opportunities for people-to-people contacts. The Ministers stressed the importance of economic cooperation and cultural ties between Norway and Armenia.

The Ministers signed a bilateral Readmission Agreement. “In an era of increasing mobility and migration, this agreement is an important part of relations between our two states”, said Foreign Minister Støre.

Minister Nalbandian invited his Norwegian counterpart to pay an official visit to Armenia. “We value our relations with Norway and look forward to raising our cooperation to a new level,” said Minister Nalbandian.

Minister Støre welcomed the efforts of Armenia and Turkey towards normalization of their bilateral relations including the opening of the border and the establishment of diplomatic relations.

The Ministers also exchanged views on the Nagorno-Karabakh peace process. Minister Støre reiterated Norway’s full support for the efforts of the OSCE Minsk Group to facilitate a peaceful solution. The Ministers confirmed their commitment to the framework for further negotiations as reflected in the 2009 OSCE Athens Ministerial Statement.

Foreign Minister Nalbandian also held a lecture at the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI) and paid a visit to the former home of renowned Norwegian polar explorer, diplomat and humanitarian, Fridtjof Nansen.