January 13 – Fostering Armenia-EU Relations: Greek Foreign Minister's Significant Visit to Armenia

 


Jan 13, 2024. Posted by  Balkan Periscope - Hellas

 

On January 10, George Gerapetritis, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Greece, visited Armenia, the Press Office of the Armenian Foreign Ministry reported.

Before the meeting at the Foreign Ministry of Armenia, George Gerapetritis, accompanied by Ararat Mirzoyan, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, also visited the Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex and paid tribute to the memory of the victims of the genocide.

Afterward, the tête-à-tête meeting between the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Armenia and Greece took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, which was followed by an enlarged meeting with the participation of the two countries' delegations.

Following the meeting, the Foreign Ministers of Armenia and Greece held a joint press conference.

Mirzoyan noted, "I expressed gratitude for Greece's support in developing Armenia-EU relations and emphasized our commitment to shared values like democracy and human rights. Effective cooperation extends to multilateral platforms and trilateral formats with Greece, which we intend to continue."

"I briefed my counterpart on the South Caucasus situation post-Nagorno-Karabakh displacement, highlighting Armenia's determination to build peace. Despite challenges and non-constructive approaches, we believe a mutually constructive approach with political will can achieve tangible progress in establishing peace," he added.

George Gerapetritis emphasized: "Greece actively supports the deepening of EU-Armenia relations and the increased EU presence through the EU Mission in Armenia (EUMA). 

We aim to strengthen the institutional dialogue, drawing on Greece's experience as one of the oldest EU Member States. 

Our collaboration extends to regional and international platforms, with Greece backing Armenia's initiatives, including the protection of World Heritage Sites through UNESCO. 

We have stood in solidarity with the people of Armenia during the challenging times following the displacement from Nagorno Karabakh, providing essential humanitarian aid."

"Greece's foreign policy adheres to principles of international law, respect for sovereignty, and a commitment to peaceful dispute resolution. 

We welcome the Joint Statement by Armenia and Azerbaijan, advocating for mutual release of prisoners and confidence-building measures.

In addressing the South Caucasus region, we support the resumption of talks between Yerevan and Baku for regional security and stability. 

The guiding principle should be achieving lasting, just, and sustainable regional peace, aligning with Armenia's "Crossroads of Peace" connectivity project. Additionally, Greece emphasizes the humanitarian needs of the displaced population and looks forward to increased bilateral cooperation across various sectors. 

Minister Mirzoyan's warm welcome in Yerevan reflects the intensity and friendship of our relations," he noted.

Caucasus News

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