Russia reaffirms interest in expanding ties with Armenia, official says

Russia is keen to further develop and expand its cooperation with Armenia across multiple sectors, Federation Council Speaker Valentina Matviyenko said during an official visit to Yerevan.

Speaking at a bilateral meeting with Armenian National Assembly Speaker Alen Simonyan, Matviyenko welcomed the resumption of political dialogue between Russia and Armenia at the parliamentary level, Caliber.Az reports via Armenian media.

“We are interested in the development and expansion of multifaceted cooperation in various spheres,” she stated.

Matviyenko highlighted the historical and cultural closeness between the two countries, describing Russia and Armenia as “natural allies” and “strategic partners.” She noted that the foundation of bilateral relations lies in strong friendship. She also noted the closeness of traditions of the peoples of the two countries. 

The Russian delegation, led by Matviyenko, is in Armenia on an official visit, which includes participation in the 10th Russian-Armenian Interregional Forum. This marks Matviyenko’s second visit to Armenia as head of the Federation Council; her last visit took place in November 2015.

Among the delegation are Federation Council Vice-Speaker Yuri Vorobyov, Defence Committee Chairman Vladimir Bulavin, First Deputy Chairman of the International Committee Vladimir Jabarov, Deputy Chair of the Social Committee Yulia Lazutkina, Regional Committee Deputy Chair Alexander Uss, and committee members Alexander Karelin and Andrey Chernyshev.

By Sabina Mammadli