France to remain Armenia's friend with new President

The Armenia-France relations are completely satisfactory. This fact can be proved by the visit of French President Jacques Chirac to Armenia last fall and the visit of Armenian leader Robert Kocharian to Paris in February. Our ties are not limited to relations between the executive powers. They are developing between the legislative structures at the level of National Assemblies and Senate. I should also mention the significant role of regional administrations and Mayors of Armenian and French towns in developing cooperation.

I can firmly say that in the person of new president Nicolas Sarkozy, France will maintain traditional friendly policy towards Armenia. The foundation for friendly relationship is strong enough and has a long-term outlook targeting at consolidation, deepening and diversification of cooperation.

The OSCE MG French Co-chair is working jointly with his U.S. and Russian counterparts for a solution to the Nagorno Karabakh conflict settlement via compromise. The presidential meeting in Saint Petersburg did not produce effect. Nevertheless, the process in going on. It was decided to hold a regular meeting of Foreign Ministers. However, the terms are not exacted yet.

Unfortunately, economic relations do not reach the level of political ones. However, there is real hope that the trade and economic relations will activate in the coming years. Investments of French companies in Armenia's economy, namely energy, gas, water supply, food industry, do prove the interest of French minor and middle business in cooperation with Armenia. Exchange programs have also been launched. The recent forum on high technologies can open good opportunities for Armenia and her young talents.