New EUSR for the South Caucasus and the crisis in Georgia visits Armenia
On 7 September 2011, Philippe Lefort – the new European Union Special Representative (EUSR) for the South Caucasus and the crisis in Georgia – was in Armenia as part of his first visit to the region. During his stay in Yerevan Lefort met with Armenian officials, including the President of the Republic of Armenia, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Defense, the Secretary of the National Security Council and the Speaker of Parliament.
Below we provide you with an article by News.am on Lefort’s meeting with Nalbandian.
Philippe Lefort’s appointment will contribute to consolidation of Armenia-EU relations – Armenian FM
(Source: News.am, http://news.am/eng/news/73337.html)
YEREVAN. – Philippe Lefort, who is appointed as EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the Crisis in Georgia, will contribute to further consolidation of Armenia-EU relations, stated Armenian FM Edward Nalbandian, who received Lefort at his official residence today.
Nalbandian noted that Armenia-EU relations have always been one of the primary directions of Armenia’s foreign policy, and a special attention is given to all domains included within the framework of Armenia-EU interaction, and, as a result of which, the parties record new accomplishments every year and bring new quality to the relations, MFA Press Service told Armenian News-NEWS.am.
In his turn, Philippe Lefort likewise expressed satisfaction by the opening of new cooperation prospects in dynamically developing Armenia-EU relations. The interlocutors also reflected on the current talks along the circles of European Neighbourhood Policy and Eastern Partnership Project, noting that considerable progress is registered in recent times. Edward Nalbandian and Philippe Lefort also discussed the continuing talks on the European Union Association Agreement and examined the preparations for the start of talks concerning reduction of entrance-visa requirements and creation of a deep and comprehensive free trade zone.
The parties also stressed the Eastern Partnership Summit to be held in Warsaw at the end of September and reflected on its preparations.
The interlocutors also looked into the latest developments relating to settlement of the Artsakh issue. Against this background, and on behalf of EU, Philippe Lefort expressed assistance to the matter’s peaceful regulation efforts being carried out under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs.
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