YEREVAN.- One of the main priorities for 2012 will be work on Karabakh peace process, Armenian Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian told journalists on Monday.

According to him, in 2012 the Ministry will continue efforts aimed at strengthening relations with Russia, Armenia’s strategic partner, expansion of relations with U.S. Important steps in the European direction, in particular continuation of talks on relaxation of visa regime, creation of free trade zone are outlined.

The foreign office will draw considerable attention to CIS states, China, India, Japan and Latin America. The major direction will be relations with the Arab states which have close ties with Armenia. The Minister pointed out necessity to maintain close relations with the countries despite the events which occurred last year.

Armenia will take certain steps to strengthen CSTO which is an important element of country’s security and will intensify activities in the international agencies.

Minister Nalbandian said that two major events – Seoul Nuclear Security Summit and Conference on Sustainable Development in Rio de Janeiro - are scheduled for the first half of 2012.

Foreign Ministry’s budget does not suppose opening of new embassies overseas, he said adding that if there is a strong necessity, the government will assist with funding.

Speaking about the Karabakh peace process, Edward Nalbandian stressed that position of Armenia and the world community coincides on the issue.

“It is very important, but untill the settlement is not reached, it is our main goal,” he said.