On December 15, Armenian Parliament Speaker Hovik Abrahamyan received Argentinean diplomat, scientist Leandro Despui, who is taking part in an international conference “The Crime of Genocide: Prevention, condemnation and elimination of consequences” held in Yerevan.

The Chief of RA NA Staff Gegham Gharibjanyan and Head of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation Dashnakstutyun (ARFD) Vahan Hovhannisyan also attended the meeting, RA National Assembly press service informed NEWS.am.

Abrahamyan highly appreciated the friendly relations between Armenia and Argentina. The evidence thereof is Mr. Despui’s activities and his considerable contribution to the international recognition of the Armenian Genocide, for which Armenian President awarded him with “Mkhitar Gosh” medal.

Hovik Abrahamyan emphasized the Argentinean diplomat’s contribution to the human rights protection and recognition of the Armenian Genocide by the Argentinean Parliament on November 29, 200.

Argentina was the second country in the South American continent after Uruguay, which branded mass killings of Armenians in the 20th century Genocide.

Armenian Speaker noted his official visit to Argentina is scheduled in spring 2011.

Doctor Leandro Despui stressed Armenian and Argentinean people became closer due to recognition of Armenian Genocide. According to him, the Armenian community is respected in Argentina and Abrahamyan’s visit to the country would be a serious impetus for the development of bilateral relations.

Mr. Despui stressed the Armenian Genocide is an undeniable fact, and its recognition is the problem not only of the Armenian people, but also of the whole world.

The officials also discussed Karabakh peace process and stressed the conflict should be resolved based on nations’ right self-determination, non-use of force and territorial integrity.