President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian today received Federal Minister for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs of Austria Alexander Schallenberg, Foreign Ministers of Lithuania and Romania Gabrielius Landsbergis and Bogdan Aurescu and their accompanying delegation within the scope of their regional visit, as reported the press service of the President.

The high-ranking European diplomats stated that the aim of their regional visit is to highlight the importance of relations with countries of the South Caucasus and the EU Eastern Partnership.

In regard to the effective partnership with Armenia within the scope of the Eastern Partnership, the diplomats noted that they would like to know about Armenia’s expectations from the Eastern Partnership Summit to be held in December of this year.

President Sarkissian and the European diplomats exchanged views on the situation in Armenia and the region, particularly humanitarian and border-related issues. The guests mentioned that stability in the region is important for the European Union and that they wish to contribute to this.

President Sarkissian touched upon the speedy return of Armenian prisoners of war and civilians in Azerbaijan and stressed that Armenia anticipates the support of its international partners to help solve this urgent issue.

The interlocutors also exchanged views on the snap parliamentary elections held on June 20 in Armenia and the post-election situation and voiced hope that the elections will contribute to the weakening of tension and to stability in the country.