Russian PM to Visit Armenia at Yearend

PanARMENIAN.Net - Today Armenian PM Andranik Margaryan met with Co-Chair of the Armenian-Russian Inter-Governmental Commission for Economic Cooperation, Russian Minister of Transport Igor Levitin, reported the Press Service of the Armenian Government. The interlocutors noted the large role of the Armenian-Russian Inter-Governmental Commission. The parties were satisfied with the growth of the volume of commodity turnover between Armenia and Russia, which increased 31% within former six months of 2005 as compared to the same period past year and was equal to $120.4 million. Russia is still Armenia's biggest trade and economic partner and the contractual basis, specifically over 160 interstate and intergovernmental documents provide an opportunity to develop and expand comprehensive cooperation, the parties emphasized. In the opinion of meeting participants, the events held in Armenia within the Year of Russia promote strengthening the Armenian-Russian relations. These will be continued in the Year of Armenia in Russia in 2006. Armenian PM noted the importance of ties and cooperation between administrative units of the two countries, as well as that of mutually favorable arrangements.



A. Margaryan remarked that establishment of efficient transport communications may promote further expansion of the trade and economic cooperation between Armenia and Russia. Armenia highlights the regular work of Kavkaz-Poti train ferry in this respect. He also stressed Armenia's interest toward resumption of communication via the Abkhaz part of the Georgian railway. The interlocutors also discussed opportunities of participation of Russia, Georgia and Armenia in the building of the railway. Mr. Margaryan remarked that trying to activate the process the Armenian party holds periodical discussions with Georgian authorities over resumption of rail communication.



Besides, A. Margaryan and I. Levitin discussed the question of putting into operation Armenian enterprises conveyed to Russia within the Property for Debt agreement. I. Levitin assured the working groups formed with that purpose make efforts and the Russian party is interested in the soonest launching of the enterprises as well. Upon completion of the meeting the parties expressed hope for the visit of Russian PM to Armenia scheduled at the year-end to convey new impetus to the development of the Armenian-Russian political and economic relations.