The Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports of Armenia, Zhanna Andreasyan, received Japanese Ambassador Masanori Fukushima, the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports of Armenia informs Armenian News-NEWS.am.

Andreasyan welcomed Ambassador Masanori and emphasized the development of Armenian-Japanese friendly ties, expressing her belief that the ambassador will contribute to further strengthening and deepening of relations between Armenia and Japan.

Also, Andreasyan highlighted Japan's investment participation in the socioeconomic development of Armenia.

Ambassador Masanori, in turn, emphasized that Armenia is an important partner for Japan. He added that there is much greater potential for close cooperation between the two countries in education, science, culture, sports, and youth affairs.

The parties highlighted the prospects of cultural cooperation, too; in particular, the possibility of holding joint exhibitions and concerts. Ambassador Masanori said that a number of cultural events are planned in the near future on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Armenia and Japan.

Zhanna Andreasyan drew the ambassador's attention to the issue of the humanitarian crisis established in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), and expressed hope that the international organizations will take targeted actions and steps to resolve the issue. The minister emphasized that, as a result of this humanitarian crisis, a number of fundamental rights of around 120,000 people in Artsakh, including 30,000 children, are violated.

Ambassador Fukushima Masanori, on behalf of the Japanese government, expressed his concern about the current situation, and noted that they are closely following the developments and attach importance to ensuring freedom of movement and security along the Lachin corridor.

Some other matters of bilateral interest were also discussed during the meeting.