Armenian Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian met on Thursday with Ireland’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Eamon Gilmore.

The sides stressed that Armenia and Ireland have many cultural similarities which may serve as a basis to develop relations between the states.

The officials discussed key questions for the OSCE taking into account Ireland’s presidency in the organization next year.

The Ministers agreed to take concrete steps to intensify political dialogue between the two countries and develop trade and economic relations.

Eymon Gilmore briefed on Ireland’s priorities and goals during presidency in OSCE. Minister Nalbadnian said Armenia will assist Ireland during its presidency in the organization.

The sides also discussed Armenia-EU cooperation and the implemented programs. Edward Nalbandian invited his Irish counterpart to visit Armenia.

Armenian FM also visited the parliament where he held a meeting with Pat Breen, Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade.

On the same day Edward Nalbandian visited the Dublin Institute of International and European Affairs where he delivered a report about priorities of Armenia’s foreign policy, foreign office press service informed Armenian News-NEWS.am.

Concluding a visit to Ireland, Foreign Minister Nalbandian traveled to Vienna, where he is scheduled to meet with OSCE Secretary General Lamberto Zannier.