Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan expressed gratitude to Micheline Calmy-Rey for her personal interest in the country and the region, pointing out Switzerland’s impartial position.

At a joint press conference with the President of Swiss Confederation, the Armenian leader reminded about century-old friendship between the nations and assistance of Swiss missionaries and the government provided to Armenian Genocide survivors. He also stressed importance of a resolution recognizing and condemning the Armenian Genocide which was adopted by Swiss National Council.

“Armenians are grateful to Switzerland for condemnation of this grave crime,” he said. According to him, bilateral relations between the countries have developed to a new level since Armenia gained independence. President Sargsyan welcomed the decision to set up Swiss Embassy in Yerevan, the opening ceremony of which will take place today.

President noted that during the meeting the sides confirmed necessity to expand economic cooperation, implement joint programs and attract Swiss investments. As an example he pointed out Switzerland’s participation in programs developing tourism in the Armenian resort areas, such as Tsakhkadzor, Jermuk and Tatev.

He also said Armenia will be an honorable guest of the 25th International Book Exhibition held in Switzerland this April and May. The sides intend to cooperate in international agencies such as the UN, OSCE, Council of Europe, as well as the International Organization of the Francophonie.

Sargsyan expressed gratitude to his Swiss counterpart for mediation between Armenia and Turkey. However, the President said Ankara, unfortunately, avoids honoring its commitments and therefore devalues ​​both the process and efforts of the involved sides.

President Calmy-Rey stressed that existing legal framework enables to develop and deepen relations between the sides.

Speaking of the Armenian partners, Calmy-Rey named the Ministry of Territorial Administration and their joint project on production of milk and gardening in Syunik. Switzerland is also cooperating with the Ministry of Emergency Situations to prevent and minimize the impact of natural disasters, she said. As regards, normalization of the Armenian-Turkish relations, Calmy-Rey noted there is a long road to pass, but there is hope for achieving results.