January 10, 2006 - 18:57 AMT
Armenia Highlights Development of Relations with Iran As Before
Armenia highlights development of mutually favorable cooperation with Iran and establishment of good neighborly atmosphere, Armenian FM Vartan Oskanian stated at today's news conference on the results of the MFA activities in 2005. In his words, on the whole progress in energy, transport and cultural cooperation is planned in 2005. Political dialogue over regional and international issues will also continue in 2005. In the Minister's words, Armenian-Iranian relations mainly focused on building of Iran-Armenia gas pipeline, exploitation of third Armenia-Iran high-voltage electric main, building of a joint hydroelectric power station on river Araks, development of alternative electric energy sphere, transit cargo transportation through Armenia, Armenia's full participation within the framework of North-South international transport corridor in 2006. The year 2005 was full with mutual visits of supreme officials, Oskanian said. "The opening of the wind electric power station, built owing to Iranian money, is considered the key event of the year," the Armenian FM said. Memorandum on mutual understanding in energy cooperation was signed between Armenia and Iran. Special attention was paid to building Iran-Armenia gas pipeline as one of the components of the country energy security.