Visit to Ireland by Mr. Vardan Oskanian, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia, 28 February 2007

The Foreign Minister of the Republic of Armenia, Mr. Vardan Oskanian, is making a one day visit to Ireland on 28 February.

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Dermot Ahern TD, will host Minister Oskanian at a working lunch. They will discuss Ireland-Armenia relations in the context of Armenia’s recent signing of an Action Plan under the EU European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) and the possibilities for further bilateral cooperation. Minister Oskanian will brief Minister Ahern on Armenia’s development since regaining independence over fifteen years ago, as well its relations with its neighbours in the region.

This is the highest level visit in either direction since diplomatic ties were established between Ireland and Armenia.

Note for Editors

The signature of ENP Action Plans with Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia on 14 November 2006, was a very positive development in EU relations with the South Caucasus countries and is the context in which Ireland is developing its bilateral relations with Armenia. The Action Plan gives Armenia the opportunity of closer economic integration and political cooperation with the EU over the next 5 years.

Minister Oskanian will address the Institute of European Affairs on the theme “Armenia: Foreign Policy in Difficult Times in a Difficult Region”. Minister Oskanian will also meet with the Oireachtas Joint Committee on European Affairs. His visit will conclude with a tour of the Chester Beatty Library.

ENDS +++
27 February 2007
Press Office