The President of Russia emphasised the special alliance that characterises relations between the Russian and Armenian peoples. Mr Sargsyan thanked Mr Putin for taking part in the memorial events commemorating 100 years since the Armenian Genocide.
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President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan: Mr Putin, let me thank you once more from all my heart for being with us today. I particularly want to thank you for the words you expressed in your message of two days ago, words that touched the heart of every Armenian. These words, as I see them and our people see them, are the words of the leader of a country that is our ally and brother.
You said in your remarks today that 100 years ago, Russia, together with the governments of France and Britain, recognised and declared that the Ottoman government’s actions against the Armenian people are a crime against humanity, a crime that should be punished. This shows how consistent Russia has been in its policy.
I am therefore very happy that you have come and I thank you very much for this. Once again, I wish you welcome to Armenia.
President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Mr Sargsyan, thank you very much, and thank you very much for the invitation.
I want to note once again the particular nature of relations between Armenia and Russia and between the Armenian and Russian peoples and the other peoples of the Russian Federation. These relations have deep historical roots. We have always been very close allies and will remain so in the future.
Our countries are developing these ties today. I will not talk about politics now, but it goes without saying that we support each other on the international stage. Our foreign ministries work in very close cooperation and we are developing our contacts within integration organisations, and in this respect, I am very pleased that Armenia has joined the Eurasian Economic Union.
Our economic relations are also on a positive track. Our bilateral trade increased despite the difficulties we faced last year, and it is important now to continue this growth. Russian investment in Armenia is increasing, and it now accounts for 40 percent of all foreign investment in Armenia.
I am very happy to be here with you today and to have this opportunity to discuss all areas of our cooperation. Thank you for the invitation.
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